delirium tremens

[ dih-leer-ee-uhm tree-muhnz, -menz ]

noun

, Pathology.

1. a withdrawal syndrome occurring in persons who have developed physiological dependence on alcohol, characterized by tremor, visual hallucinations, and autonomic instability. : d.t.

delirium tremens

/ ˈtriː-; ˈtrɛmɛnz /

noun

1. a severe psychotic condition occurring in some persons with chronic alcoholism, characterized by delirium, tremor, anxiety, and vivid hallucinations AbbreviationdtinformalDT's

delirium tremens

/ dĭ-lîr′ē-əmtrē′mənz /

1. An acute, sometimes fatal episode of delirium that is usually caused by withdrawal or abstinence from alcohol following habitual excessive drinking or an episode of heavy alcohol consumption. It is characterized by trembling, sweating, acute anxiety, confusion, and hallucinations.

Word History and Origins

Origin of delirium tremens¹

First recorded in 1813; from New Latin: “trembling delirium”

Word History and Origins

Origin of delirium tremens¹

C19: New Latin, literally: trembling delirium

Example Sentences

I nursed him through several attacks of delirium tremens, and was always in fear that he would get out and disgrace us.

From Project Gutenberg

It is most frequent among those whose addiction to alcohol for years has caused repeated paroxysms of delirium tremens.

From Project Gutenberg

It is not so apt to happen during a first attack of delirium tremens as during subsequent attacks.

From Project Gutenberg

Patients suffering from delirium tremens, for instance, may die suddenly in the midst of a paroxysm of excitement.

From Project Gutenberg

Nor could a man be punished for being admitted whilst suffering from delirium tremens.

From Project Gutenberg