1. A neurological disorder characterized by loss of the ability to execute learned purposeful movements, despite having the desire and physical ability to do so.
Usage: Medical/clinical term; Often results from brain injury or stroke; Distinct from paralysis or weakness

Examples

• After her stroke, the patient developed apraxia and struggled to perform familiar tasks like buttoning her shirt.
• The neurologist diagnosed him with apraxia of speech, making it difficult for him to coordinate the movements needed for clear speech.
• Apraxia can affect fine motor skills, such as writing or using utensils, even when the person understands what needs to be done.
• Children with developmental apraxia may have trouble planning and executing the movements required for speech.
• The brain imaging revealed damage in the motor cortex, which explained the patient's apraxia.