altered state of consciousness

American  

noun

1. any modification of the normal state of consciousness or awareness, including drowsiness or sleep and also states created by the use of alcohol, drugs, hypnosis, or techniques of meditation.

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Etymology

Origin of altered state of consciousness

First recorded in 1970–75

Example Sentences

And in a 2013 study, 82% of participants reported entering an altered state of consciousness that transcended the self, with some saying the process helped heal their trauma and depression.

From Salon • Apr. 23, 2025

Did the patient get knocked unconscious, see stars or experience other altered state of consciousness at the time?

From New York Times • May 2, 2024

The exercise, they were told, had the potential to induce an altered state of consciousness so profound that breathers sometimes describe it as reliving the terrifying moment of their birth.

From Seattle Times • Jan. 14, 2024

“Is he’s created an altered state of consciousness induction device. And, I think it worked on me.”

From Los Angeles Times • Sep. 26, 2023

Hypnosis is the induction of a seemingly altered state of consciousness in which a person appears to relinquish voluntary control, becoming highly responsive to suggestion.

From Scientific American • Oct. 21, 2020