-
- To save this word, you'll need to log in.
general paresis
noun
: syphilis of the central nervous system that is characterized by memory loss, muscle weakness, progressive dementia, seizures, and paralysis
Examples of general paresis in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
This is not entirely ridiculous—in 1913 a mental illness known as general paresis of the insane was confirmed as being caused by syphilis—but the history of modern medicine and psychiatry has taught us that these examples are the exception rather than the rule.
—Vaughan Bell, Discover Magazine, 22 May 2012
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to
show current usage.
Read More
Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors.
Send us feedback.
Word History
First Known Use
1862, in the meaning defined above
Dictionary Entries Near general paresis
Cite this Entry
“General paresis.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/general%20paresis. Accessed 28 Nov. 2024.
Medical Definition
general paresis
noun
: neurosyphilis that is marked by chronic inflammation of the brain and meninges and is characterized by memory loss, muscle weakness, personality changes, progressive dementia, seizures, and generalized paralysis
called also dementia paralytica
Love words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
Share