Definition

A condition where a person feels an uncontrollable need to dance, often thought to be caused by a spider bite, especially noted in southern Italy during the 15th to 17th centuries.

Example

During the festival, some people experienced tarantism and danced wildly in the streets.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of tarantism?

Yeah, I read it was a dancing mania from centuries ago.

It's fascinating how people thought it was caused by a spider bite.

Totally! Imagine dancing uncontrollably just because of that.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Tarantism is derived from 'tarantula' (from Italian 'tarantola', meaning a type of spider) and the suffix '-ism' (meaning a condition or state). The term originally referred to a condition believed to be caused by the bite of a tarantula, leading to uncontrollable dancing and other symptoms.

Memory Tip

Imagine a spider bite ('tarantula') causing a specific condition ('-ism') that makes someone dance uncontrollably. This helps you remember that tarantism is related to a state caused by a spider's bite.

Visually Confused Words