{ ‖ } n. [ NL. catalepsis, fr. Gr. &unr_; a seizure, fr. &unr_; to seize upon; kata` down + &unr_; 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. [ 1913 Webster ]