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Spasm - Meaning, Definition & English Examples

A spasm is a sudden, involuntary muscle contraction, often causing pain or discomfort. It can occur due to stress, overuse, or medical conditions like cramps or seizures.

spasm

/ˈspæzəm/ /ˈspæzəm/

Definition:

A sudden, involuntary muscle contraction or convulsion.

Synonyms:

convulsion, twitch, cramp, seizure

Part of Speech:

noun

Antonyms:

relaxation, calm

Common Collocations:

muscle spasm, painful spasm, sudden spasm, back spasm

Derivatives:

spasmodic, spastic, spasming

Usage Tips:

Use "spasm" to describe an uncontrollable muscle tightening, often painful or brief.

Common Phrases:

muscle spasm, facial spasm, writer's cramp

Etymology:

From Greek "spasmos," meaning a pulling or convulsion.

Examples:

  • 1. She felt a sharp spasm in her leg during the run.
  • 2. His hand jerked in a sudden spasm while writing.
  • 3. A back spasm left her unable to move for minutes.
  • 4. The cold water caused a muscle spasm in his foot.

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