ataxia

[ uh-tak-see-uh ]

noun

, Pathology.

1. loss of coordination of the muscles, especially of the extremities. Compare tabes dorsalis ( def ).

ataxia

/ əˈtæksɪ; əˈtæksɪə /

noun

1. pathol lack of muscular coordination

ataxia

/ ə-tăk′sē-ə /

1. Loss of muscular coordination as a result of damage to the central nervous system.

Derived Forms

• aˈtaxic, adjective

Other Words From

• a·taxic adjective
• prea·taxic adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of ataxia¹

First recorded in 1605–15; from New Latin, from Greek: “indiscipline,” from a- a- ⁶ + táx(is) -taxis + -ia -ia

Word History and Origins

Origin of ataxia¹

C17: via New Latin from Greek: lack of coordination, from a- ¹+ -taxia, from tassein to put in order

Example Sentences

At times locomotor ataxia begins with very severe pain seizures, known as crises.

From Project Gutenberg

Hence it is that paresis and locomotor ataxia are comparatively quite common among actors, brokers, and financiers.

From Project Gutenberg

A physician wrote me, taking me to task for listing among the cures reported in my tabulation a case of locomotor ataxia.

From Project Gutenberg

Locomotor ataxia was the least she might expect from her description of her feelings.

From Project Gutenberg

May his unsightly face, and more hideous body dislocate itself in a deceitful ataxia (for they're still at these old tricks)!

From Project Gutenberg

Related Words

• anarchy
• disarray
• discord
• disorder
• lawlessness
• pandemonium
• tumult
• turmoil