Cataplexy
Pathology. a condition characterized by sudden, brief attacks of muscle weakness sometimes causing the body to fall helplessly, that is usually triggered by strong emotion: often associated with narcolepsy.
noun
sudden temporary paralysis, brought on by severe shock
a state of complete absence of movement assumed by animals while shamming death
n.
“the state of an animal when it is feigning death,” 1883, from German kataplexie, from Greek kataplexis “stupefaction, amazement, consternation,” from kataplessein “to strike down” (with fear, etc.), from kata- “down” (see cata-) + plessein “to strike, hit,” from PIE *plak- (2) “to strike” (see plague (n.)). Related: Cataplectic.
cataplexy cat·a·plex·y (kāt’ə-plěk’sē)
n.
A sudden loss of muscle tone and strength, usually caused by an intense emotional stimulus.
cat’a·plec’tic (-plěk’tĭk) adj.
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an ancient military engine for hurling stones, arrows, etc. a device for launching an airplane from the deck of a ship. British. a slingshot. to hurl from a catapult. to thrust or move quickly or suddenly: His brilliant performance in the play catapulted him to stardom. British. to hurl (a missile) from a slingshot. to […]
- Cataract
a descent of water over a steep surface; a waterfall, especially one of considerable size. any furious rush or downpour of water; deluge. Ophthalmology. an abnormality of the eye, characterized by opacity of the lens. the opaque area. Historical Examples Asshur-bani-pal’s power extended from the range of Niphates to the First cataract. History of Phoenicia […]
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