epileptic

adjective

ep·​i·​lep·​tic ˌe-pə-ˈlep-tik How to pronounce epileptic (audio)
: relating to, affected with, or having the characteristics of epilepsy
an epileptic seizure
epileptic noun
epileptically adverb

Examples of epileptic in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
According to experts, the movements are prime examples of myoclonus or myoclonic jerks—involuntary muscle spasms similar to hiccups and epileptic seizures. Andrew Paul, Popular Science, 13 Nov. 2024 The sheriff’s office also said the man suffered from epileptic seizures. Saleen Martin, USA TODAY, 30 Oct. 2024 Walmart had a policy accommodating Wiman’s absences due to epileptic seizures. Miguel Torres, The Arizona Republic, 1 Oct. 2024 Mapping an ailing brain The film is intended to improve a process called functional brain mapping, which is often used when a person needs surgery to remove a brain tumor or tissue causing severe epileptic seizures. Jon Hamilton, NPR, 13 June 2024 See all Example Sentences for epileptic 

Word History

First Known Use

1572, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of epileptic was in 1572

Dictionary Entries Near epileptic

Cite this Entry

“Epileptic.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/epileptic. Accessed 21 Dec. 2024.

Kids Definition

epileptic

1 of 2 adjective
ep·​i·​lep·​tic
ˌep-ə-ˈlep-tik
: of, relating to, or having epilepsy
an epileptic seizure

epileptic

2 of 2 noun
: a person who has epilepsy

Medical Definition

epileptic

1 of 2 adjective
ep·​i·​lep·​tic ˌep-ə-ˈlep-tik How to pronounce epileptic (audio)
: relating to, affected with, or having the characteristics of epilepsy
epileptically adverb

epileptic

2 of 2 noun
: one affected with epilepsy

More from Merriam-Webster on epileptic

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!