1. n.1 (as the Muses) (in Greek and Roman mythology) nine goddesses, the daughters of Zeus and Mnemosyne, who inspire poetry, music, drama, etc.
2 (usu. prec. by the) a a poet's inspiring goddess. b a poet's genius.
Etymology: ME f. OF muse or L musa f. Gk mousa 2. v. & n. literary
--v.
1. intr. a (usu. foll. by on, upon) ponder, reflect. b (usu. foll. by on) gaze meditatively (on a scene etc.).
2 tr. say meditatively.
--n. archaic a fit of abstraction.
Etymology: ME f. OF muser to waste time f. Rmc perh. f. med.L musum muzzle