Also latah. The Malay name under which a form of religious hysteria is known in Java. It is characterized by a rapid ejaculation of inarticulate sounds, and a succession of involuntary movements, with temporary loss of consciousness (Syd. Soc. Lex., 1888)
1884. Western Daily Press, 25 June, 7/5. This disease has been met with in Java, where it is known as ‘Lata.’
1895. W. G. Ellis, in Jrnl. Ment. Sci. (1897), 32 (heading). Latah. A Mental Malady of the Malays. Ibid., 33. Under the name ‘Latah’ the Malays describe a variety of peculiar nervous conditions of a transitory character.
