[mod.L., a. Gr. ἀναισθησία want of feeling, f. ἀν priv. + αἴσθησι-ς sensation, f. stem αἰσθε-, to feel, perceive. Cf. mod.Fr. anesthésie. In this and the following: derivatives of αἰσθε-, the æ is by some pronounced. (ī, i, ĭ) according to place of accent.] Loss of feeling or sensation, insensibility.
1721. Bailey, Anæsthesia, a Defect of Sensation, as in Paralytic and blasted Persons.
1848. Sir J. Y. Simpson, in Pharm. Jrnl., VII. 517. The state of anæsthesia lasted for two or three minutes.
1877. Erichsen, Surg., I. 15. To induce anæsthesia by the inhalation of vapours.
b. fig.
1865. Mrs. Whitney, Gayworthys, xliii. In that mysterious anæsthesia, he had left sense and certainty behind him.
