Definition

A sudden and severe medical condition caused by bleeding in the brain, often leading to loss of consciousness or paralysis. It can also refer to a fit of extreme anger.

Example

The news of the scandal caused such apoplexy among the board members that they could hardly speak.

Conversation

Did you see how angry she got during the meeting yesterday?

Yeah, it was like she was about to have an apoplexy!

I know, right? It was so intense that I thought she might explode.

Exactly! I've never seen her that passionate before.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Apoplexy is derived from the Greek "apoplexia" (meaning a striking down or paralysis) which is formed from "apo-" (meaning away from) and "plexis" (meaning a stroke or blow). The term originally referred to a sudden loss of consciousness or paralysis due to a stroke, indicating a condition where one is struck down by a medical event.

Memory Tip

Imagine being 'struck down' ('apo-' means away from, and 'plexis' means a stroke) — this helps you remember that apoplexy refers to a sudden medical event like a stroke.

Visually Confused Words