paresis

[ puh-ree-sis, par-uh-sis ]

noun

, Pathology.

1. partial motor paralysis.
2. a late manifestation of syphilis, characterized by progressive dementia and paralysis.

paresis

/ ˈpærɪsɪs; pəˈriːsɪs; pəˈrɛtɪk /

noun

1. incomplete or slight paralysis of motor functions
2. See general paralysis of the insane
   short for general paresis See general paralysis of the insane

Derived Forms

• paretic, adjective

Other Words From

• pa·ret·ic [p, uh, -, ret, -ik, -, ree, -tik], noun adjective
• pa·reti·cal·ly adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of paresis¹

1685–95; < New Latin < Greek páresis paralysis, a letting go, equivalent to pare- (variant stem of pariénai to let go) + -sis -sis

Word History and Origins

Origin of paresis¹

C17: via New Latin from Greek: a relaxation, from parienai to let go, from para- ¹+ hienai to release

Example Sentences

If there is neuritis from the virus it becomes intense and causes muscular contractions, paresis, and paralysis.

From Project Gutenberg

Paresis is what is sometimes called softening of the brain, and it attacks by preference men under thirty-five.

From Project Gutenberg

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

From Project Gutenberg

Indeed this affection and paresis are sometimes spoken of as parasyphilitic affections.

From Project Gutenberg

The sudden cure of advanced paresis would be as much a miracle as the sudden replacing of a lost femur.

From Project Gutenberg