Definition of SPASM

spasm

Plural: spasms

Noun

  • A sudden, involuntary muscular contraction; a brief, intense burst.
  • a painful and involuntary muscular contraction
  • (pathology) sudden constriction of a hollow organ (as a blood vessel)
  • A sudden, involuntary contraction of a muscle, a group of muscles, or a hollow organ.
  • A violent, excruciating seizure of pain.
  • A sudden and temporary burst of energy, activity, or emotion.

Verb

  • To produce and undergo a spasm or series of spasms.

Examples

  • A SPASM of inspiration hit him, revealing a perfect seven-letter word on his rack.
  • Jessica went into spasms after eating a peanut.

Origin / Etymology

From Middle English spasme, from Old French spasme, from Latin spasmus, from Ancient Greek σπασμός (spasmós, “spasm, convulsion”), from σπάω (spáō, “to draw out, pull out”).

Synonyms

cramp, muscle spasm

Scrabble Score: 9

spasm: valid Scrabble (US) TWL Word
spasm: valid Scrabble Word in Merriam-Webster MW Dictionary
spasm: valid Scrabble Word in International Collins CSW Dictionary

Words With Friends Score: 11

spasm: valid Words With Friends Word