epilepsy

Definition

A medical condition in which the sufferer experiences seizures (or convulsions) and blackouts.

Etymology

Since 16th century; borrowed from French épilepsie, from Latin epilēpsia, from Ancient Greek ἐπιληψίᾱ (epilēpsíā), from ἐπιλαμβάνω (epilambánō, “I seize”), from ἐπι- (epi-, “upon”) + λαμβάνω (lambánō, “I take”). Displaced native Old English fiellesēocnes (literally “falling sickness”).

Example Sentences

• "Epilepsies, or fallings and reelings, and beastly vomitings. The least of these, even when the tongue begins to be untied, is a degree of drunkenness."

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