Spasmodic Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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spasmodic
[spæzˈmɒdɪk ]
Definition
medical term
Spasmodic refers to something characterized by sudden, brief, and often irregular or involuntary muscular contractions or spasms. This term is often used in the context of medical conditions, such as spasmodic dysphonia, where the voice muscles spasm during speech. It may also describe movements or actions that are erratic and unpredictable, giving a sense of urgency or intensity. In literature, it may refer to actions taken in spurts, rather than consistently over time.
Synonyms
abrupt, fitful, intermittent, irregular, sudden.
Examples of usage
- The patient experienced spasmodic contractions.
- Her spasmodic laughter filled the room.
- He had a spasmodic attack of coughing.
- The spasmodic movements were alarming.
- Spasmodic activity can disrupt normal functions.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Medicine
- In medicine, spasmodic movements can occur due to conditions affecting the nervous system, such as epilepsy or multiple sclerosis.
- Conditions like spasmodic dysphonia result in abnormal voice changes due to involuntary muscle spasms.
Literature
- Spasmodic poetry emerged as a movement in the 19th century, showcasing exaggerated emotions and irregular meter to convey urgency and intensity.
- Authors like John Keats and Alfred Lord Tennyson used spasmodic elements to evoke strong feelings in their works.
Psychology
- Anxiety and stress can trigger spasmodic responses in the body, highlighting the mind-body connection.
- Spasmodic movements can also be a physical manifestation of psychological conditions, such as panic disorders.
Pop Culture
- In comedy, spasmodic movements are often exaggerated for humor, reflecting a character's clumsiness or shock.
- Animated characters frequently display spasmodic traits in slapstick routines, making them visually funny to audiences.
Origin of 'spasmodic'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Greek word 'spasmos,' meaning to pull or to jerk, reflecting sudden movements.
- It entered the English language in the early 19th century, demonstrating a growing interest in medical terminology at the time.
The term 'spasmodic' derives from the Greek word 'spasmos', which means 'a pulling, a twitch'. This etymology reflects the involuntary and sudden nature of spasms. The word came into use in English during the 19th century and has primarily remained in medical contexts, although it has been adopted into everyday language to describe actions or behaviors that are erratic or fitful. Spasmodic is often used to describe conditions that feature muscle spasms or sudden interruptions in normal bodily function, and over time, its usage has expanded into metaphorical applications in various fields, including literature, to depict sudden bursts of activity or emotion.