epilepsy

[ ep-uh-lep-see ]

noun

, Pathology.

1. a disorder of the nervous system, characterized either by mild, episodic loss of attention or sleepiness petit mal or by severe convulsions with loss of consciousness grand mal.

epilepsy

/ ˈɛpɪˌlɛpsɪ /

noun

1. a disorder of the central nervous system characterized by periodic loss of consciousness with or without convulsions. In some cases it is due to brain damage but in others the cause is unknown See also grand mal petit mal

epilepsy

/ ĕp′ə-lĕp′sē /

1. Any of various neurological disorders characterized by recurrent seizures. Epilepsy is caused by abnormal electrical activity in the brain.

epilepsy

1. A disorder of the brain characterized by sudden, recurring attacks of abnormal brain function, often resulting in convulsions or seizures. The seizures associated with epilepsy can sometimes be controlled by medication.

Word History and Origins

Origin of epilepsy¹

First recorded in 1570–80; from Old French epilepsie, from Late Latin epilēpsia, from Greek epilēpsía “epileptic seizure,” derivative of epilambánein “to take hold of, seize, attack”; epi-, -lepsy ( def )

Word History and Origins

Origin of epilepsy¹

C16: from Late Latin epilēpsia, from Greek, from epilambanein to attack, seize, from lambanein to take

Example Sentences

Voice experiments in people with epilepsy have helped trace the circuit of electrical signals in the brain that allow its hearing center to sort out background sounds from their own voices.

From Science Daily

From a practical standpoint, the findings could prove useful in avoiding important areas during surgeries to remove tumors or epilepsy focal points, or in placing neurostimulators designed to stop seizures.

From Science Daily

Treating epilepsy during pregnancy is challenging, as some anti-seizure medications, primarily older drugs such as valproate, are known to cause serious birth defects and cognitive problems in children, including lower IQ and autism spectrum disorders.

From Science Daily

Researchers from Professor Vijay Tiwari's research group at the Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Southern Denmark, have developed a new method called MoPEDE, which has the potential to improve epilepsy treatment.

From Science Daily

She says Jamie suffered his first ever seizure after he began being placed in the calming rooms and believes his treatment directly resulted in his epilepsy.

From BBC

Related Words

• contraction
• cramp
• paroxysm
• seizure
• tremor