Definition of apoplexy

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ap·o·plex·y    (p-plks) KEY 

NOUN:

1. Sudden impairment of neurological function, especially that resulting from a cerebral hemorrhage; a stroke.
2. A sudden effusion of blood into an organ or tissue.
3. A fit of extreme anger; rage: "The proud . . . members suffered collective apoplexy, and this year they are out for blood" (David Finch).

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ETYMOLOGY:
Middle English apoplexie, from Old French, from Late Latin apoplxia, from Greek apoplxi, from apoplssein, apoplg-, to cripple by a stroke : apo-, intensive pref. ; see apo- + plssein, to strike; see plk-² in Indo-European roots