Epilepsy Meaning
/ˈɛpɪlɛpsi/Definition, CEFR level C1, pronunciation, examples, and quiz.
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Definition
nounA medical condition in which the sufferer experiences seizures (or convulsions) and blackouts.
Sentence Examples
Epilepsy can have various causes.
The relationship between epilepsy and glucose metabolism was established more than 85 years ago.
Karl was informed by the doctor that he had epilepsy.
CEFR Practice Quiz
The patient was diagnosed with ____ after having frequent seizures.
CEFR Practice Quiz (Alternate)
The doctor prescribed medication to help control the seizures caused by ____.
Word Origin & History
Since 16th century; borrowed from French épilepsie, from Latin epilēpsia, from Ancient Greek ἐπιληψίᾱ (epilēpsíā), from ἐπιλαμβάνω (epilambánō, “to seize”), from ἐπι- (epi-, “upon”) + λαμβάνω (lambánō, “to take”). Displaced native Old English fiellesēocnes (literally “falling sickness”).
Literary Quotations & Historical Citations
"Epilepsies, or fallings and reelings, and beastly vomitings. The least of these, even when the tongue begins to be untied, is a degree of drunkenness."
— 1651, Jer[emy] Taylor, The Rule and Exercises of Holy Living. […], 2nd edition, London: […] Francis Ashe […], →OCLC:
Explore More C1 Vocabulary Words
CEFR Practice Quiz
The patient was diagnosed with ____ after having frequent seizures.
CEFR Practice Quiz (Alternate)
The doctor prescribed medication to help control the seizures caused by ____.