entasia (entasia)

[NL.: see entasis.] Same as entasis, 2. entasis (en'tā-sis), n. [NL., IMG:content-0530.png:[blocks in formation] d-ere, stretch: see tend1.] 1. In arch., the swelling or outward curve of the profile of the shaft of a column. The entasis exists in perfection in the finest examples of Greek Doric, in which the swelling is greatest a little below the middle point of the shaft, but never so great as to interfere with the steady diminution of the shaft from the base upward. The entasis is designed both to counteract the optical illusion which would cause the profiles of the shafts to appear curved inward if they were bounded by straight lines, and to give the effect of life and elasticity to the column in its function of supporting superimposed weight. 2. In pathol., constrictive or tonic spasm, as cramp, lockjaw, etc. See tetanus. Also entasia. entaskt (en-task'), v. t. [ Yet sith the Heav'ns haue thus entaskt my layes,... It is enough, if heer-by I incite Some happier spirit to do thy Muse more right. Sylvester, tr. of Du Bartas's Weeks, 1. 4.