cataplexy
[ kat-uh-plek-see ]
/ ˈkæt əˌplɛk si /
noun
Pathology. a condition characterized by sudden, brief attacks of muscle weakness sometimes causing the body to fall helplessly, that is usually triggered by strong emotion: often associated with narcolepsy.
Nearby words
Origin of cataplexy
Related formscat·a·plec·tic [kat-uh-plek-tik] /ˌkæt əˈplɛk tɪk/, adjective
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Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2019
British Dictionary definitions for cataplexy
cataplexy
/ (ˈkætəˌplɛksɪ) /
noun
sudden temporary paralysis, brought on by severe shock
a state of complete absence of movement assumed by animals while shamming death
Derived Formscataplectic, adjective
Word Origin for cataplexy
C19: from Greek kataplēxis amazement, from kataplēssein to strike down (with amazement), confound, from kata- down + plēssein to strike
Collins English Dictionary - Complete & Unabridged 2012 Digital Edition
© William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins
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Word Origin and History for cataplexy
cataplexy
"the state of an animal when it is feigning death," 1883, from German kataplexie, from Greek kataplexis "stupefaction, amazement, consternation," from kataplessein "to strike down" (with fear, etc.), from kata- "down" (see cata-) + plessein "to strike, hit," from PIE *plak- (2) "to strike" (see plague (n.)). Related: Cataplectic.
Online Etymology Dictionary, © 2010 Douglas Harper
Medicine definitions for cataplexy
cataplexy
[ kăt′ə-plĕk′sē ]
n.
A sudden loss of muscle tone and strength, usually caused by an intense emotional stimulus.
Related formscat′a•plec′tic (-plĕk′tĭk) adj.
The American Heritage® Stedman's Medical Dictionary
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