Passion flower (Bot.), any flower or plant of the genus Passiflora; --
so named from a fancied resemblance of parts of the flower to the
instruments of our Savior's crucifixion.
The flowers are showy, and the fruit is sometimes highly esteemed (see
Granadilla, and Maypop). The roots and leaves are generally more or
less noxious, and are used in medicine. The plants are mostly tendril
climbers, and are commonest in the warmer parts of America, though a
few species are Asiatic or Australian.
Passion music (Mus.), originally, music set to the gospel narrative of
the passion of our Lord; after the Reformation, a kind of oratorio,
with narrative, chorals, airs, and choruses, having for its theme the
passion and crucifixion of Christ. -- Passion play, a mystery play, in
which the scenes connected with the passion of our Savior are
represented dramatically. -- Passion Sunday (Eccl.), the fifth Sunday
in Lent, or the second before Easter. -- Passion Week, the last week
but one in Lent, or the second week preceding Easter. "The name of
Passion week is frequently, but improperly, applied to Holy Week."
Shipley.
Syn. -- Passion, Feeling, Emotion. When any feeling or emotion
completely masters the mind, we call it a passion; as, a passion for
music, dress, etc.; especially is anger (when thus extreme) called
passion. The mind, in such cases, is considered as having lost its
self- control, and become the passive instrument of the feeling in
question.
Pas"sion (?), v. t. [imp. & p. p. Passioned (?); p. pr & vb. n.
Passioning.] To give a passionate character to. [R.] Keats.
Pas"sion, v. i. To suffer pain or sorrow; to experience a passion; to
be extremely agitated. [Obs.] "Dumbly she passions, frantically she
doteth." Shak.
Pas"sion*al (?), a. Of or pertaining to passion or the passions;
exciting, influenced by, or ministering to, the passions. -- n. A
passionary.
Pas"sion*a*ry (?), n. [L. passionarius: cf. F. passionaire.] A book in
which are described the sufferings of saints and martyrs. T. Warton.
Pas"sion*ate (?), a. [LL. passionatus: cf. F. passionnÈ.] 1. Capable or
susceptible of passion, or of different passions; easily moved, excited
or agitated; specifically, easily moved to anger; irascible;
quick-tempered; as, a passionate nature.
Homer's Achilles is haughty and passionate.
Prior.
2. Characterized by passion; expressing passion; ardent in feeling or
desire; vehement; warm; as, a passionate friendship. "The passionate
Pilgrim." Shak.