catalepsy

cat·a·lep·sy

noun \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

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