CATASTASIS

‖Ca‐tas″ta‐sis (?), n. [[NL., fr. Gr. �, fr. � to set; κατά down + � to place.]] 1. 1. (Rhet.) That part of a speech, usually the exordium, in which the orator sets forth the subject matter to be discussed.
2. 2. (Med.) The state, or condition of anything; constitution; habit of body.