sensation Look up sensation at Dictionary.com
1615, "a reaction to external stimulation of the sense organs," from M.L. sensationem (nom. sensatio), from L.L. sensatus "endowed with sense, sensible," from L. sensus "feeling" (see sense). Meaning "state of shock, surprise, in a community" first recorded 1779.
"The great object of life is sensation -- to feel that we exist, even though in pain. It is this 'craving void' which drives us to gaming -- to battle, to travel -- to intemperate, but keenly felt, pursuits of any description, whose principal attraction is the agitation inseparable from their accomplishment." [Lord Byron]