schizophrenia
schizophrenia Lexical Profile
schizophrenia Game Scores & Validity
• noun
A severe, chronic mental disorder characterized by disruptions in thought processes, perceptions, emotional responsiveness, and social interactions, often manifesting as delusions, hallucinations, and disorganized speech or behavior.
"Advances in antipsychotic medication and psychotherapy have significantly improved the long-term management of schizophrenia."
A state or condition marked by the coexistence of contradictory or incompatible elements, attitudes, or policies (used figuratively).
"The administration's regulatory approach showed a certain political schizophrenia, promoting green energy while simultaneously subsidizing coal."
Word Nuance & Usage
In clinical usage, schizophrenia refers to a psychotic disorder involving a disconnection from reality, and should not be confused with dissociative identity disorder (formerly known as multiple personality disorder). Its informal figurative use to describe contradictory policies or attitudes is sometimes discouraged by mental health advocates.
• Rhymes for schizophrenia
• Nearby Words
Word Origin & Etymology
Coined in German as 'Schizophrenie' in 1908 by the Swiss psychiatrist Eugen Bleuler, formed from the Ancient Greek 'schizein' (to split) and 'phren' (mind), referring to a fragmentation of mental functions rather than a split personality.