Twitched Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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twitched

[twɪtʃt ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

muscle movement

The term 'twitched' refers to a sudden, quick movement of a muscle or group of muscles. It can occur involuntarily, often as a response to stimuli such as stress, fatigue, or neurological disorders. Twitching may be benign, like a harmless muscle twitch often seen after exercise, or it can indicate a more serious underlying condition. In some cases, it is associated with various medical conditions, including dystonia, myoclonus, or anxiety disorders. Continuous twitching can also be referred to as twitching syndrome.

Synonyms

contracted, quivered, shivered, spasmed.

Examples of usage

  • His eye twitched from the stress of the job.
  • She felt her leg twitch uncontrollably during the movie.
  • The cat twitched its tail in excitement.
  • He noticed his fingers twitched while he was waiting.
  • They laughed as the dog twitched in its sleep.

Translations

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Origin of 'twitched'

The word 'twitch' has its origins in the early 14th century, derived from the Middle English term 'twicchen', which means to pull or jerk. It is likely related to the Old English 'twiccian', meaning to touch or to pull. The evolution of the word reflects a progression from its physical roots to its broader application in describing involuntary muscle movements. Over time, 'twitch' has been used in various contexts, from medical terminology to casual descriptions of sudden movements. As a verb, it captures both the involuntary nature of the action and the immediacy of the response, becoming commonly associated with neurological phenomena and muscular reactions.


Word Frequency Rank

With rank #19,310, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.