Definitions:

1. a seizure of short duration characterized by momentary unconsciousness and local muscle spasms or twitching noun
   • I was scared by my first petit mal.
2. epilepsy characterized by paroxysmal attacks of brief clouding of consciousness and possibly other abnormalities noun
   • They have been suffering from petit mal since childhood.

Synonyms:

• epilepsia minor
• petit mal epilepsy