Capgras syndrome

[ kap-grah sin-drohm, -druhm ]

noun

, Psychiatry, Neurology.

1. a delusional condition characterized by the belief that an impostor identical in appearance has replaced one’s spouse, or one or more of one’s family members or friends.

Word History and Origins

Origin of Capgras syndrome¹

First recorded in 1970–75; named after Joseph Capgras (1873–1950), French psychiatrist who first described the disorder with Jean Reboul-Lachaux (1923)

Example Sentences

Victims of Capgras syndrome think that identical imposters have replaced their loved ones.

From Scientific American

The man developed Capgras syndrome and Cotard’s syndrome, and came to believe alternately that his wife was an impostor, and that he was already dead.

From New York Times

Studies have shown that Capgras syndrome is relatively common in patients with Lewy body dementia, with one report finding a prevalence of 16.6 percent.

From Washington Post

Capgras syndrome is a psychological condition that prompts a person to believe that loved ones have been replaced by identical duplicates of themselves.

From Washington Post

“The Capgras syndrome was really the breakage of our bond. It’s horrible because it’s such a disconnect between you and your loved one,” Carol said.

From Washington Post