catalepsy

noun cat·a·lep·sy \ˈka-tə-ˌlep-sē\

plural cat·a·lep·sies

Definition of CATALEPSY

: a trancelike state marked by loss of voluntary motion in which the limbs remain in whatever position they are placed

— cat·a·lep·tic \ˌka-tə-ˈlep-tik\ adjective or noun

— cat·a·lep·ti·cal·ly \-ti-k(ə-)lē\ adverb

See catalepsy defined for kids

Origin of CATALEPSY

Middle English catalempsi, from Medieval Latin catalepsia, from Late Latin catalepsis, from Greek katalēpsis, literally, act of seizing, from katalambanein to seize, from kata- + lambanein to take — more at latch

First Known Use: 14th century

Medical Dictionary

catalepsy

noun cat·a·lep·sy \ˈkat-^əl-ˌep-sē\

plural cat·a·lep·sies

Medical Definition of CATALEPSY

: a trancelike state of consciousness (as that occurring in catatonic schizophrenia) that is marked by a loss of voluntary motion and a fixed posture in which the limbs remain in whatever position they are placed—compare waxy flexibility