bipolar disorder

noun

: any of several psychological disorders of mood characterized usually by alternating episodes of depression and mania

called also bipolar illness, manic depression

Examples of bipolar disorder in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

In addition to several stints in rehab since 2009 to combat his alcohol abuse, Margera has been diagnosed with bipolar disorder. —Etan Vlessing, The Hollywood Reporter, 20 Dec. 2024

My fascination with firsthand accounts began in my teens, shaped by my experiences as the daughter of an addict and alcoholic and sister of someone with bipolar disorder. —The Editors, JSTOR Daily, 20 Dec. 2024

Those who live with mental illnesses such as schizophrenia and bipolar disorder often require consistent resources like case management, medication, therapy and housing. —Eva Wen, Journal Sentinel, 11 Dec. 2024

He was hospitalized several times for schizophrenia and bipolar disorder and often wore military-style boots (like the print found at at least one of the crime scenes). —Jessica Sager, People.com, 23 Oct. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1972, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

bipolar disorder

noun

: any of several psychological disorders of mood characterized by alternating episodes of depression and mania

Medical Definition

bipolar disorder

noun

: any of several mood disorders characterized usually by alternating episodes of depression and mania

Note: The mania experienced in bipolar disorder may be of the euphoric or irritable type or both.

called also bipolar affective disorder, bipolar illness, manic depression, manic-depressive illness

compare major depressive disorder