relapse

American  

[ri-laps, ri-laps, ree-laps] / rɪˈlæps, rɪˈlæps, ˈri læps /

verb (used without object)

relapsed, relapsing

1. to fall or slip back into a former state, practice, etc..

   to relapse into silence.

2. to fall back into illness after convalescence or apparent recovery.

3. to fall back into vice, wrongdoing, or error; backslide.

   to relapse into heresy.

   Synonyms:

   lapse, revert, regress

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noun

1. an act or instance of relapsing.

2. a return of a disease or illness after partial recovery from it.

relapse British  

verb

1. to lapse back into a former state or condition, esp one involving bad habits

2. to become ill again after apparent recovery

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noun

1. the act or an instance of relapsing

2. the return of ill health after an apparent or partial recovery

Other Word Forms

• relapsable adjective
• relapser noun
• unrelapsing adjective

Etymology

Origin of relapse

First recorded in 1400–50; (for the verb) late Middle English, from Latin relāpsus “slid back,” past participle of relābī “to slide back, revert,” from re- re- + lābī “to fall, slide, make a mistake”; noun derivative of the verb

Example Sentences

A lengthy prison term may increase the odds that re-entry will be extremely difficult, leading to relapse, and re-imprisonment.

From Literature

As Garfield's progress slowed, and especially after his distressing relapse, the doctors began to consider removing the bullet in order to save his life.

From Literature

"I hope my sister is not overtaxing her strength, so soon after her illness. It would be a great pity if she were to suffer a relapse."

From Literature

Since ’93 my mom hasn’t had a mental relapse and my sister, Janell, has calmed down.

From Literature

The news of the president's late-July relapse shocked and disappointed everyone, including his doctors.

From Literature

Related Words

• recidivism
• recurrence
• regression
• worsening