Schizophrenia

/ˌskɪtsəˈfrɪniə/

Meaning & Definition

noun
A severe mental disorder characterized by distortions in thinking, perception, emotions, language, and sense of self, often manifesting through psychotic symptoms such as hallucinations or delusions.
The diagnosis of schizophrenia can be challenging due to the complex presentation of symptoms.
A condition often marked by episodes of psychosis, used to describe a spectrum of related disorders that affect how a person thinks, feels, and behaves.
Research suggests that early intervention can improve outcomes for individuals with schizophrenia.
In psychiatry, schizophrenia includes a range of subtypes and is classified in diagnostic manuals such as the DSM-5.
The patient was diagnosed with paranoid schizophrenia due to the presence of delusions and auditory hallucinations.
A term sometimes used metaphorically in popular culture to describe a conflict or division in a person's thoughts or identity.
The author used schizophrenia as a metaphor for the struggle between one's aspirations and their reality.

Etymology

From Greek 'schizo-' meaning 'split' and 'phrenia' meaning 'of the mind'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

paranoid schizophrenia
A type of schizophrenia characterized by paranoia and delusions.
disorganized schizophrenia
A type of schizophrenia where thought processes are fragmented and disorganized.
residual schizophrenia
A condition where a person has a history of past schizophrenic episodes but currently exhibits milder symptoms.

Related Words

schizotypal
Relating to a personality disorder characterized by eccentric behavior and thought patterns.
psychosis
A mental disorder in which there is a disconnection from reality.
delusion
A belief that is not based in reality, often seen in schizophrenia.

Slang Meanings

Crazy
He was acting so crazy; I thought he might have schizophrenia.
Split personality
People often misunderstand schizophrenia as having a split personality.