Meaning & Definition of word "Lobotomy"

Lobotomy

/ləˈbɒtəmi/

1. A neurosurgical procedure that involves cutting the connections to and from the prefrontal cortex of the brain, historically used to treat mental illness.
- Example: The patient underwent a lobotomy in an attempt to alleviate severe symptoms of schizophrenia.
2. A controversial and now largely discredited surgical procedure once used to treat various psychological disorders.
- Example: The practice of lobotomy has been largely abandoned due to ethical concerns and the advent of more effective psychiatric treatments.
3. An operation that involves severing the frontal lobe from the rest of the brain, often resulting in significant changes in personality and behavior.
- Example: After the lobotomy, the man exhibited a flat emotional state, markedly different from his previous personality.
4. An act or instance of performing a lobotomy.
- Example: Historical records show that the lobotomy was performed on thousands of patients during its peak popularity.

●Derived from the Greek 'lobos' meaning 'lobe' and 'tomia' meaning 'cutting'.

lobotomy patient:

A person who has undergone a lobotomy, often used to refer to someone who has significantly changed after the procedure.

perform a lobotomy:

To conduct the surgical procedure of lobotomy, typically highlighting its controversial nature.

lobotomy era:

Refers to the period when lobotomies were commonly performed, particularly in the mid-20th century.

neurosurgery:

The surgical specialty that treats disorders of the nervous system.

psychosurgery:

Surgical treatment of psychologically-based disorders.

mental illness:

Disorders that affect mood, thinking, and behavior.

Meaning: Mental fog or confusion resulting from excessive treatment or medication.

● Example Sentence: After the new meds, I felt like I was in a lobotomy state.

Meaning: A term used jokingly to describe a reduction in someone's critical thinking abilities.

● Example Sentence: His last few decisions make me think he had a lobotomy.