altered state of consciousness

noun

1. any modification of the normal state of consciousness or awareness, including drowsiness or sleep and also states created by the use of alcohol, drugs, hypnosis, or techniques of meditation.

Word History and Origins

Origin of altered state of consciousness¹

First recorded in 1970–75

Example Sentences

Did the patient get knocked unconscious, see stars or experience other altered state of consciousness at the time?

From New York Times

The problem is that people who are repeatedly exposed to weapons blasts often cannot pinpoint a specific traumatic event or altered state of consciousness, according to Stuart W. Hoffman, who directs brain injury research for the V.A.

From New York Times

The exercise, they were told, had the potential to induce an altered state of consciousness so profound that breathers sometimes describe it as reliving the terrifying moment of their birth.

From Seattle Times

However, it can be conceptualized as an altered state of consciousness with distortions of perception, modified sense of self and rapidly changing emotions.

From Salon

“Is he’s created an altered state of consciousness induction device. And, I think it worked on me.”

From Los Angeles Times