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Glite Dictionary
latah

latah

1 9.9
A condition often seen in Southeast Asia that makes a person jump and copy others after a sudden surprise
  • noun
  • Philippine
: latah
  • People experiencing latah often mimic the words and actions of those around them after being startled.

Examples

  • The documentary highlighted a case of latah, where individuals began repeating phrases after being surprised.

  • Researchers observed several cases of latah among villagers after a loud noise startled the group.

  • The woman with latah would often mimic words spoken by others immediately after being surprised.

  • Medical professionals in Southeast Asia are familiar with the symptoms of latah.

  • Her sudden reaction showed signs of latah.

  • Many people in Indonesia believe in latah as a cultural phenomenon.

  • In some regions, people with latah can react dramatically to sudden noises or movements.

Surface Forms

latah singular
latahs plural

Etymology

Latah comes from Malay and Indonesian and originally named a sudden 'startle' reaction. Because this reaction often makes people automatically copy others' words or actions, latah is used to describe the condition of very strong startle responses and automatic copying seen in Southeast Asia.