in-custody death syndrome
n.— «A condition known as “excited delirium,” sometimes also referred to as “in-custody death syndrome,” has been attributed by some US and Canadian coroners to a number of deaths in custody, especially in the case of persons on drugs or suffering from psychosis. It is a combination of signs and symptoms, including dangerously elevated body temperature levels, leading to sudden death. The theory relating to such a syndrome is controversial and disputed by some medical experts.» —“Canada: Excessive and lethal force?” Amnesty International Nov. 30, 2004. (source: Double-Tongued Dictionary)
Further reading
Carpe diem is often translated “seize the day,” but the carpe in that Latin saying can also mean “pluck” or “harvest.” The saying comes from a brief poem by the ancient Roman writer Horace. Addressing a woman desperate to know her fate, Horace uses...
Quiz Guy John Chaneski gathers clues to words that contain æ, the ligature called ash that can appear in such words as Cæsar. For example, what’s a dessert historically served after church services? This is part of a complete episode. Transcript of...