What are the root origins of word narcolepsy?

The word "narcolepsy" has its roots in Greek. It's a combination of two words:

* "narke" (νάρκη) - meaning "numbness" or "torpor"

* "lepsis" (ληψις) - meaning "seizure" or "attack"

Therefore, narcolepsy literally means "seizure of numbness" or "attack of torpor," accurately reflecting the sudden onset of sleep attacks that characterize the condition.