Definition

Describing a state where a person shows little or no movement, activity, or expression, often related to severe mental health conditions.

Example

After the traumatic event, she appeared catatonic, sitting silently for hours without moving.

Conversation

Did you see how she acted during the meeting?

Yeah, she seemed almost catatonic at times.

I wonder if she's feeling okay or just really stressed out.

It could be a mix of both; hopefully she'll open up soon.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Catatonic → It is formed from "kata-" (from Greek "kata", meaning down or against) and "tonos" (from Greek "tonos", meaning tension or tone). The word describes a state of being with reduced muscle tone or tension, often associated with a lack of movement or responsiveness.

Memory Tip

Think of 'down' ('kata-') and 'tension' ('tonos') to remember that catatonic refers to a state of reduced muscle tone or movement.

Visually Confused Words