The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48:
Captation \Cap*ta`tion\, n. [L. captatio, fr. captare to catch, intens. of caper to take: cf. F. captation.] A courting of favor or applause, by flattery or address; a captivating quality; an attraction. [Obs.] [1913 Webster] Without any of those dresses, or popular captations, which some men use in their speeches. --Eikon Basilike. [1913 Webster]