catalepsy Meaning, Definition & Usage

  1. noun a trancelike state with loss of voluntary motion and failure to react to stimuli

WordNet

Cat"a*lep`sy, Cat`a*lep"sis noun (Also<
  • Catalepsy
  • Catalepsis
)
Etymology
NL. catalepsis, fr. Gr. a seizure, fr. to seize upon; down + to take, seize.
Definitions
  1. (Med.) A sudden suspension of sensation and volition, the body and limbs preserving the position that may be given them, while the action of the heart and lungs continues.

Webster 1913