cat·a·lep·sy (k t l- p s )n. pl. cat·a·lep·sies A condition characterized by lack of response to external stimuli and by muscular rigidity, so that the limbs remain in whatever position they are placed. It is known to occur in a variety of physical and psychological disorders, such as epilepsy and schizophrenia, and can be induced by hypnosis. [Middle English catalempsi, from Late Latin catal mpsia, from Greek katalpsis, from katalambanein, to seize upon : kata-, intensive pref.; see cata- + lambanein, lp-, to seize.]cat a·leptic (ktl-pt k) adj.cat a·lepti·cal·ly adv. |
catalepsy
Noun
a trancelike state in which the body is rigid [Greek katalēpsis a seizing]
cataleptic adj
catalepsy
Pathology, Psychiatry. a physical condition characterized by a loss of sensation, muscular rigidity, flxity of posture, and often by a loss of contact with surroundings. Also catalepsis. — cataleptic, adj.
See also: Disease and Illness
ThesaurusLegend: Synonyms Related Words Antonyms
| Noun | 1. | catalepsy - a trancelike state with loss of voluntary motion and failure to react to stimuli hypersomnia - an inability to stay awake |
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