catatonic
Catatonic (adj) means In a state of near-total unresponsiveness and stillness, as from shock or a psychiatric condition. Example: “After the accident, he sat catatonic in the waiting room, unable to speak.”
How to use catatonic
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishFrozen and unresponsive, whether from a medical condition or emotional shock.
Often used loosely in everyday speech to mean "completely still and unresponsive," beyond its clinical psychiatric meaning.
Word forms
more catatonic comparative, catatonics plural, most catatonic superlative
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After the accident, he sat _____ in the waiting room, unable to speak.
Rhymes for catatonic
See all rhymes for catatonic →Frequently asked questions
What does “catatonic” mean?
The word “catatonic” means in a state of near-total unresponsiveness and stillness, as from shock or a psychiatric condition. In plain terms, frozen and unresponsive, whether from a medical condition or emotional shock.
How do you pronounce “catatonic”?
“Catatonic” is pronounced ka-tuh-TON-ihk (/kæ.təˈtɑn.ɪk/ in IPA).
How do you use “catatonic” in a sentence?
Here is “catatonic” used in a sentence: “After the accident, he sat catatonic in the waiting room, unable to speak.”
What part of speech is “catatonic”?
“Catatonic” is an adjective.