ataxia

noun

atax·​ia ə-ˈtak-sē-ə 

(ˌ)ā-

: an inability to coordinate voluntary muscular movements that is symptomatic of some central nervous system disorders and injuries and not due to muscle weakness

called also incoordination

ataxic

ə-ˈtak-sik 

(ˌ)ā-

adjective

Examples of ataxia in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Certain side effects could occur, such as drowsiness, confusion, and uncoordinated movement (ataxia) in certain people. —Melissa Nieves, Health, 13 Sep. 2024

There is no cure for spinocerebellar ataxia, however, treatment plans involve minimizing symptoms and improving function. —Vanessa Etienne, Peoplemag, 15 Aug. 2024

Gluten ataxia might be related to celiac disease, but not all people with celiac disease have gluten ataxia. —Janelle McSwiggin, Msn, Health, 5 Aug. 2024

Stroke, dementia, and neurodegenerative movement disorders that occur during adulthood are common causes of ataxia. —Heidi Moawad, Verywell Health, 11 July 2024

Word History

Etymology

borrowed from Greek ataxía "lack of discipline, disorder, confusion," from a- a- entry 2 + -taxia, from táxis "drawing up in rank and file, order of battle, order, arrangement" + -ia -ia entry 1 — more at taxis

First Known Use

1670, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing ataxia

• ataxia-telangiectasia
• locomotor ataxia

Kids Definition

ataxia

noun

atax·​ia ə-ˈtak-sē-ə 

(ˈ)ā-

: inability to coordinate voluntary muscular movements

ataxic

-sik 

adjective

Medical Definition

ataxia

noun

atax·​ia ə-ˈtak-sē-ə, (ˈ)ā- 

: an inability to coordinate voluntary muscular movements that is symptomatic of some disorders of the central nervous system

ataxic

-sik 

adjective