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Definition of: cataplexy
(kat′ə·plek′sē) noun Psychiatry
A temporary paroxysmic rigidity of the muscles often caused by sudden emotional shock. [<Gk. kataplēxis amazement <kataplēssein astound <kata- down + plēssein strike]
—cat′a·plec′tic (-plek′tik) adjective
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