01 v. i. To slip or slide back, in a literal sense; to turn back.
imp. & p. p.
Relapsed; p. pr. & vb. n.
Relapsing
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1.
To slip or slide back, in a literal sense; to turn back.[Obs.]
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2.
To slide or turn back into a former state or practice; to fall back from some condition attained; -- generally in a bad sense, as from a state of convalescence or amended condition; as, to relapse into a stupor, into vice, or into barbarism; -- sometimes in a good sense; as, to relapse into slumber after being disturbed.“That task performed, [preachers] relapse into themselves.” — Cowper.
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3.
To fall from Christian faith into paganism, heresy, or unbelief; to backslide.(Theol.)“They enter into the justified state, and so continue all along, unless they relapse.” — Waterland.