ataxia

[ uh-tak-see-uh ]

noun

, Pathology.

1. loss of coordination of the muscles, especially of the extremities. Compare tabes dorsalis ( def ).

ataxia

/ əˈtæksɪ; əˈtæksɪə /

noun

1. pathol lack of muscular coordination

ataxia

/ ə-tăk′sē-ə /

1. Loss of muscular coordination as a result of damage to the central nervous system.

Derived Forms

• aˈtaxic, adjective

Other Words From

• a·taxic adjective
• prea·taxic adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of ataxia¹

First recorded in 1605–15; from New Latin, from Greek: “indiscipline,” from a- a- ⁶ + táx(is) -taxis + -ia -ia

Word History and Origins

Origin of ataxia¹

C17: via New Latin from Greek: lack of coordination, from a- ¹+ -taxia, from tassein to put in order

Example Sentences

Intriguingly, something similar seems to be happening in another form of ataxia, SCA2, which also interferes with protein recycling.

From Science Daily

These include inherited diseases that lead to ataxia, or loss of muscle control, and early-onset dementia.

From Science Daily

Degeneration of Purkinje cells is associated with various neurodevelopmental and neurodegenerative disorders, including autism spectrum disorder and cerebellar ataxia, a condition that affects muscle movement.

From Science Daily

Because RNA repeats are present in similar diseases, like ALS and certain types of spinocerebellar ataxia, the door is open to treatments for these other fatal, degenerative diseases.

From Science Daily

His research now focuses on addressing language difficulties in autistic people and in people with ataxia, Parkinson’s disease or neurodegenerative disorders.

From Scientific American

Related Words

• anarchy
• disarray
• discord
• disorder
• lawlessness
• pandemonium
• tumult
• turmoil