epilepsy

[ ep-uh-lep-see ]

noun

, Pathology.

1. a disorder of the nervous system, characterized either by mild, episodic loss of attention or sleepiness petit mal or by severe convulsions with loss of consciousness grand mal.

epilepsy

/ ˈɛpɪˌlɛpsɪ /

noun

1. a disorder of the central nervous system characterized by periodic loss of consciousness with or without convulsions. In some cases it is due to brain damage but in others the cause is unknown See also grand mal petit mal

epilepsy

/ ĕp′ə-lĕp′sē /

1. Any of various neurological disorders characterized by recurrent seizures. Epilepsy is caused by abnormal electrical activity in the brain.

epilepsy

1. A disorder of the brain characterized by sudden, recurring attacks of abnormal brain function, often resulting in convulsions or seizures. The seizures associated with epilepsy can sometimes be controlled by medication.

Word History and Origins

Origin of epilepsy¹

First recorded in 1570–80; from Old French epilepsie, from Late Latin epilēpsia, from Greek epilēpsía “epileptic seizure,” derivative of epilambánein “to take hold of, seize, attack”; epi-, -lepsy ( def )

Word History and Origins

Origin of epilepsy¹

C16: from Late Latin epilēpsia, from Greek, from epilambanein to attack, seize, from lambanein to take

Example Sentences

Despite being born "fit and well" Bradley was later diagnosed with cerebral palsy and epilepsy.

From BBC

"I didn't have epilepsy one day and the next day I did," she said.

From BBC

Epilepsy is a common condition that affects the brain.

From BBC

Now her epilepsy is under control, and she is not having any seizures.

From BBC

Debbie has spoken "very informally" to her children about epilepsy.

From BBC

Related Words

• contraction
• cramp
• paroxysm
• seizure
• tremor