Sleeping dropsy, more commonly known as narcolepsy, is a sleeping disorder characterized by sudden uncontrollable attacks of sleepiness or excessive daytime sleepiness. However, despite its medical name, there are alternative terms used to refer to this condition. One such synonym is "excessive daytime somnolence", which describes the overwhelming drowsiness experienced by narcoleptics during waking hours. Another term for narcolepsy is "hypersomnia", which emphasizes the excessive sleepiness component of the disorder. Lastly, narcolepsy is sometimes referred to as "sleep attacks", highlighting the abrupt onset of extreme sleepiness that narcoleptic individuals might encounter. By using these synonyms, individuals can better understand and discuss the condition's symptoms and treatment options.