bipolar illness
noun
: bipolar disorder
People with bipolar illness fluctuate between two mood extremes—mania and depression.—
Paul Donohue
Paul DonohueExamples of bipolar illness in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
Psychiatry has gained more precise language for the diagnosis of depression and bipolar illness; this is necessary for good science and clinical care.
—Kay Redfield Jamison, STAT, 3 May 2024
In this loose sequel to a best-selling memoir of bipolar illness, Jamison, a writer and a psychologist, explores the process of prying a mind from disease or despair.
—Condé Nast, The New Yorker, 17 July 2023
Conditions include depression, anxiety disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, bipolar illness (which may include psychotic symptoms), and substance use disorders.
—Christine Michel Carter, Forbes, 21 Apr. 2023
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to
show current usage.
Read More
Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors.
Send us feedback.
Kay Redfield Jamison, STAT, 3 May 2024
In this loose sequel to a best-selling memoir of bipolar illness, Jamison, a writer and a psychologist, explores the process of prying a mind from disease or despair.
—Condé Nast, The New Yorker, 17 July 2023
Conditions include depression, anxiety disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, bipolar illness (which may include psychotic symptoms), and substance use disorders.
—Christine Michel Carter, Forbes, 21 Apr. 2023
Cite this Entry
“Bipolar illness.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/bipolar%20illness. Accessed 31 Oct. 2025.
Copy CitationMedical Definition
bipolar illness
noun
: bipolar disorder
Bipolar illness is characterized by manic episodes of abnormally elated mood, increased energy, rapid speech, irritability, impulsivity, hostility and psychosis, and periods of severe depression.—Jamie Talan, Newsday
Jamie Talan, NewsdayLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
Share