cataplexy

cat·a·plex·y   (kāt'ə-plěk'sē)    n.   pl. cat·a·plex·ies A sudden loss of muscle tone and strength, usually caused by an extreme emotional stimulus. [From Greek kataplēxis, fixation (of the eyes), from kataplēssein, to astound, terrify : kata-, intensive pref.; see cata- + plēssein, plēk-, to strike; see plāk-2 in Indo-European roots.] cat'a·plec'tic (-plěk'tĭk) adj.

Main Entry: cat·a·plexy
Pronunciation: 'kat-&-"plek-sE
Function: noun
Inflected Form: plural cat·a·plex·ies /-sEz/
: sudden loss of muscle power with retention of clear consciousness following a strong emotional stimulus (as fright, anger, or shock)

cataplexy cat·a·plex·y (kāt'ə-plěk'sē)
n.
A sudden loss of muscle tone and strength, usually caused by an intense emotional stimulus.

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cat'a·plec'tic (-plěk'tĭk) adj.