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Ataxic: meaning, definitions and examples

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ataxic

 

[ əˈtæksɪk ]

Adjective
Context #1 | Adjective

medical condition

Ataxic refers to a lack of coordination in voluntary movements, often characterized by clumsiness, unsteadiness, and a wide-based gait. It is commonly associated with damage to the cerebellum or the pathways connecting the cerebellum to other parts of the brain. Individuals with ataxia may experience difficulties with balance, hand-eye coordination, and speech. This term can also describe the specific motor impairment seen in conditions such as cerebellar ataxia and peripheral neuropathy.

Synonyms

clumsy, uncoordinated, unsteady

Examples of usage

  • The patient displayed ataxic movements while walking.
  • Ataxic speech is a common symptom of the disorder.
  • Drunken gait is often due to ataxic conditions.
  • Therapy aims to improve ataxic symptoms.

Translations

Translations of the word "ataxic" in other languages:

🇵🇹 ataxica

🇮🇳 एटैक्सिक

🇩🇪 ataxisch

🇮🇩 ataxik

🇺🇦 атаксичний

🇵🇱 ataksyjny

🇯🇵 失調性の

🇫🇷 ataxique

🇪🇸 atáctico

🇹🇷 ataxik

🇰🇷 운동 실조의

🇸🇦 معتل الحركة

🇨🇿 ataxický

🇸🇰 ataxický

🇨🇳 共济失调的

🇸🇮 ataxični

🇮🇸 ataxískur

🇰🇿 атаксикалық

🇬🇪 ატაქსიური

🇦🇿 ataxik

🇲🇽 ataxico

Etymology

The term 'ataxic' originates from the Greek word 'ataxia,' which means 'lack of order.' The prefix 'a-' denotes absence, while 'taxia' relates to arrangement or order. The medical use of the term started to gain prominence in the 19th century as neurological advancements were made in understanding motor control. Ataxia initially described conditions linked to the lack of coordinated movement and has since evolved to encompass various neurological disorders that affect balance and coordination. It is often a key symptom in diseases such as multiple sclerosis, Friedreich's ataxia, and among patients suffering from degenerative conditions.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #33,407 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.