Spastic: meaning, definitions and examples
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spastic
[ ˈspæstɪk ]
medical condition
The term 'spastic' is often used to describe a type of cerebral palsy characterized by stiff and jerky movements. It refers to muscles that are continuously contracted, leading to difficulty in movement and posture. While the term has a specific medical definition, it has also been used informally in various contexts, sometimes derogatorily. In recent years, the use of 'spastic' as a pejorative has been criticized for its offensive connotations.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- He has spastic diplegia, affecting his legs.
- The spastic movements were a result of the neurological disorder.
- Medical professionals often use the term spastic in diagnosis.
informal use
In informal contexts, 'spastic' can refer to someone who is considered clumsy or foolish. This usage is generally regarded as pejorative, as it can trivialize the challenges faced by people with motor disorders. It is advisable to avoid using the term in this way, as it can perpetuate stigma and misunderstanding. The derogatory use has led to calls for more respectful language when discussing disabilities.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- He acted like a spastic during the game.
- Using 'spastic' to insult someone is inappropriate.
- Don't be such a spastic, just relax!
Translations
Translations of the word "spastic" in other languages:
🇵🇹 espástico
🇮🇳 स्पास्टिक
🇩🇪 spastisch
🇮🇩 spastik
🇺🇦 спастичний
🇵🇱 spastyczny
🇯🇵 痙攣性の
🇫🇷 spastique
🇪🇸 espástico
🇹🇷 spastik
🇰🇷 경련성의
🇸🇦 تشنجي
🇨🇿 spastický
🇸🇰 spastický
🇨🇳 痉挛的
🇸🇮 spastičen
🇮🇸 spastískur
🇰🇿 спастикалық
🇬🇪 სპასტიკური
🇦🇿 spastik
🇲🇽 espástico
Etymology
The word 'spastic' originates from the late 19th century, derived from the Greek 'spastikos', which means 'drawing in', and stems from the verb 'spasmos' (to draw, pull, or stretch). Initially used in medical terminology to describe certain muscular conditions, it became widely associated with cerebral palsy, particularly in describing the spastic form characterized by heightened muscle tone and impaired motor control. Over time, however, the casual use of the term evolved, leading it to be employed as a slur against individuals perceived as clumsy or socially inept. This shift in usage has garnered significant criticism, prompting advocacy for more sensitive language when discussing disabilities. As awareness grows, societal attitudes toward such terminology are changing in favor of more respectful options.