English

Etymology

Old English poplexye , LL. poplexia, apoplexia, from Gr. ἀποπληξία (apoplēxia), from ἀποπλήσσειν (apoplēssein) to cripple by a stroke; ἀπό (apo) from + πλήσσειν (plēssein) to strike: compare with French apoplexie . See Plague.

Pronunciation

IPA: WEAE /ˈæp.əˌplɛks.i/

Noun

1. (Medical) Sudden diminution or loss of consciousness, sensation, and voluntary motion, usually caused by pressure on the brain.

Note: The term is now usually limited to cerebral apoplexy, or loss of consciousness due to effusion of blood or other lesion within the substance of the brain; but it is sometimes extended to denote an effusion of blood into the substance of any organ; as, apoplexy of the lung.