Emily Dickinson Lexicon

CAP-TIV'I-TY, n. [Fr. captivité; L. captivitas, from capto, to seize.]

1. The state of being a prisoner, or of being in the power of an enemy by force or the fate of war. – Dryden.
2. Subjection to love. – Addison.
3. Subjection; a state of being under control. Bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ. – 2 Cor. x.
4. Subjection; servitude; slavery. But I see another law in my members … bringing me into captivity to the law of sin. – Rom. vii. To lead captivity captive, in Scripture, is to subdue those who have held others in slavery, or captivity. – Ps. lxviii.