Cat"a*lep`sy (?), Cat`a*lep"sis (?), n. [NL. catalepsis, fr. Gr. a seizure, fr. to seize upon; down + to take, seize.] Med.
A sudden suspension of sensation and volition, the body and limbs preserving the position that may be given them, while the action of the heart and lungs continues.
© Webster 1913.