narcolepsy

[ nahr-kuh-lep-see ]

noun

Pathology.

1. a condition characterized by frequent and uncontrollable periods of deep sleep.

narcolepsy

/ ˈnɑːkəˌlɛpsɪ /

noun

1. pathol a rare condition characterized by sudden and uncontrollable episodes of deep sleep

Derived Forms

• ˌnarcoˈleptic, adjective

Other Words From

• narco·leptic adjective noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of narcolepsy¹

First recorded in 1875–80; narco- + (epi)lepsy

Example Sentences

Some volunteers who tried the narcolepsy treatment, sodium oxybate, found it eased their speech in a similar way to drinking alcohol, but without intoxication.

From BBC

So, this carp species does not fall into a fainting state, as it is common in narcolepsy and does not require orexin to regulate their sleep-wake cycle.

From Science Daily

He told the Statesman he cares for a number of chronically ill patients, including people with narcolepsy, and wants to continue treating them regardless of what happens to Saltzer.

From Seattle Times

People with narcolepsy are also sleepy during the day but usually do not sleep excessive amounts of time and may wake up feeling refreshed after naps.

From Science Daily

In her latest study, she and her colleagues observed 27 people with narcolepsy — characterized by daytime sleepiness and a high frequency of lucid dreams — and 22 people without the condition.

From Scientific American