apoplectic
|ap-o-plec-tic|
/ˌæpəˈplɛktɪk/
struck/overwhelmed (by a stroke or by fury)
Etymology
'apoplectic' originates from Greek, specifically the word 'apoplēktikos' (ἀποπληκτικός), where 'apo-' meant 'away' and the root related to 'plēssō' (to strike) meant 'to strike'.
'apoplectic' changed from Late Latin/Medieval Latin 'apoplecticus' / 'apoplecticus' (borrowed from Greek) and eventually became the modern English word 'apoplectic'.
Initially, it meant 'relating to apoplexy' (a medical stroke); over time it acquired an extended figurative sense of 'overcome with extreme anger or indignation'.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Adjective 1
relating to or caused by apoplexy (a stroke); affected by a sudden loss of consciousness or neurological function due to cerebral bleeding or blockage.
The elderly man became apoplectic and was rushed to the hospital with symptoms of a stroke.
Synonyms
Last updated: 2025/09/21 09:48