Definition

A sudden loss of muscle control and strength, often triggered by strong emotions like laughter or surprise.

Example

During the funny movie, she experienced cataplexy and fell to the floor, unable to move for a moment.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of cataplexy?

Yeah, I read about it once; it's pretty interesting.

I just found out it can happen when someone gets really excited or laughs hard.

That's wild! I can't imagine suddenly losing muscle strength like that.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Cataplexy → It is formed from "kata-" (meaning down) and "plexis" (from Greek "plexis", meaning to strike or to be struck). The word describes a condition where a person experiences sudden muscle weakness or paralysis, often triggered by strong emotions, as if being struck down.

Memory Tip

Think of being 'struck down' ('kata-' means down and 'plexis' relates to striking) — this helps you remember that cataplexy involves sudden loss of muscle control.

Visually Confused Words