Spasm
As a Noun
- A sudden, involuntary muscle contraction or twitch.
- A brief, intense burst of activity, emotion, or movement.
As a Verb (Less Common)
- To experience an involuntary muscle contraction.
Word History
The word spasm comes from the Greek spasmos, meaning “convulsion” or “cramp,” which originates from span, meaning “to pull” or “to draw.” It has been used in English since the 14th century to describe sudden, uncontrolled movements or bursts of action.
Examples
- (Noun) A spasm in his leg woke him up in the middle of the night.
- (Noun) She felt a spasm of anger but quickly calmed down.
- (Verb) His fingers spasmed from holding the heavy bag for too long.
Synonyms
Cramp, twitch, convulsion, tremor, jerk
Related Words
Seizure, contraction, reflex, burst
Antonyms
Relaxation, stillness, ease, calmness
