First Known Use: 1883
Dictionary
cataplexy
noun cat·a·plexy \ˈka-tə-ˌplek-sē\
plural cat·a·plex·ies\-sēz\
Definition of CATAPLEXY
: sudden loss of muscle power following a strong emotional stimulus
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Origin of CATAPLEXY
German Kataplexie, from Greek kataplēxis, from kataplēssein to strike down, terrify, from kata- + plēssein to strike — more at plaint
Rhymes with CATAPLEXY
Medical Dictionary
cataplexy
noun cat·a·plexy \ˈkat-ə-ˌplek-sē\
plural cat·a·plex·ies \-sēz\
Medical Definition of CATAPLEXY
: a sudden loss of muscle control with retention of clear consciousness that follows a strong emotional stimulus (as elation, surprise, or anger) and is a characteristic symptom of narcolepsy
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