apoplectic
ap-uh-PLEK-tik
/ˌæp.əˈplɛk.tɪk/
Overcome with anger; extremely indignant or furious to the point of incapacitation.
Describes anger so violent that it resembles a physical medical seizure, with red skin, sputtering speech, or vascular strain.
The story behind the word. Derived from Greek 'apo-' (off/away) and 'plēssein' (to strike), apoplexy historically referred to being struck down by a sudden stroke. By the late 19th century, observers likened the red-faced, breathless violent rage of angry individuals to an impending apoplectic fit.
Word relationships
- apoplectiform: Apoplectiform is a technical term resembling apoplexy, whereas apoplectic is commonly applied to extreme rage.
- composed: Composed means calm and in total control of emotions.
Commonly confused with
- epileptic: Epileptic relates to neurological seizures; apoplectic relates historically to strokes and figuratively to overwhelming rage.
Word family
- apoplexy (noun): Extreme anger; historically, a stroke.
Collocations
- apoplectic with rage
- nearly apoplectic
- apoplectic fit
Idioms & expressions
- burst a blood vessel
Example sentences
- "The CEO was virtually apoplectic when the quarterly losses were unveiled." Corporate meltdown
- "The retired general became apoplectic whenever anyone questioned his military strategy." Satirical narrative
Memory hook
APOPLECTIC: APO (away) + PLEX (complex) = Anger so complex you pop a blood vessel. Struck down by rage.
When not to use
Avoid in modern clinical medical settings where 'stroke' is preferred.
Fun facts
- In Victorian novels, elderly characters frequently threatened to 'have an apoplexy' when argued with.
Explore more words
irascible, vituperation, gesticulate, inflame, rancorous, diatribe
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