latah

American  

[lah-tuh] / ˈlɑ tə /

Or lata

noun

1. a pattern of neurotic behavior, usually induced by a startle, first discovered in Malaya, and characterized by the compulsive imitation of the actions and words of others.

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latah British  

/ ˈlɑːtə /

noun

1. a psychological condition, observed esp in Malaysian cultures, in which an individual, after experiencing a shock, becomes anxious and suggestible, often imitating the actions of another person

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Etymology

Origin of latah

Borrowed into English from Malay around 1880–85

Example Sentences

"I wunner whah that little scamp is," she said, smiling; "I tol' him to hu'y home, but I reckon he's stayin' out latah wid de evenin' papahs so's to bring home mo' money."

From The Strength of Gideon and Other Stories by Dunbar, Paul Laurence

I'll go if you wish it; though I tell you again, you're backing the wrong man, and soonah or latah you'll discover it.

From Miss Cayley's Adventures by Allen, Grant

In point of fact, I don't mind telling yah, I back myself still for a couple of thou' soonah or latah to marry yah.

From Miss Cayley's Adventures by Allen, Grant

Den latah on daddy bought de mill from de Mosleys too.

From Slave Narratives: a Folk History of Slavery in the United States From Interviews with Former Slaves Ohio Narratives by Work Projects Administration

He's trained to follow, and he'll find me latah, if I make it.

From Kid Wolf of Texas by Powers, Paul S. (Paul Sylvester)