Meaning & Definition of word "Lobotomy"
Lobotomy
/ləˈbɒtəmi/
noun:
- 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.
Etymology
●Derived from the Greek 'lobos' meaning 'lobe' and 'tomia' meaning 'cutting'.
Common Phrases and Expressions
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.
Related Words
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.
Slang Meanings of lobotomy
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.