Emily Dickinson Lexicon

RHAP'SO-DY, n. [Gr. ῥαψωδια; ῥαπτω, to sew or unite, and ωδη, a song.]

Originally, a discourse in verse, sung or rehearsed by a rhapsodist; or a collection of verses, particularly those of Homer. In modern usage, a collection of passages, thoughts or authorities, composing a new piece, but without necessary dependence or natural connection. – Locke. Watts.