Lexic.us

Definition of Tarantism

1. Noun. A nervous disorder characterized by an uncontrollable impulse to dance; popularly attributed to bite of the southern European tarantula or wolf spider.

Definition of Tarantism

1. n. A nervous affection producing melancholy, stupor, and an uncontrollable desire to dance. It was supposed to be produced by the bite of the tarantula, and considered to be incapable of cure except by protracted dancing to appropriate music.

Definition of Tarantism

1. [n -S]

Medical Definition of Tarantism

1. A nervous affection producing melancholy, stupor, and an uncontrollable desire to dance. It was supposed to be produced by the bite of the tarantula, and considered to be incapable of cure except by protraced dancing to appropriate music. Alternative forms: tarentism. Origin: It. Tarantismo: cf. F. Tarentisme. See Tarantula. Source: Websters Dictionary (01 Mar 1998)

Lexicographical Neighbors of Tarantism

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