spasm

word

Definition

A spasm is a sudden, involuntary muscle movement or contraction that often causes pain. It can also describe any quick, uncontrollable burst of activity or feeling.

Usage & Nuances

Used in both medical and everyday contexts. Common collocations: 'muscle spasm', 'back spasm', 'spasm of laughter'. Often describes sudden, brief pain. Not used for regular muscle movements or intentional actions.

Example Sentences

He felt a spasm of pain in his back.

basic

She had a spasm in her leg after running.

basic

A muscle spasm can happen suddenly.

basic

I got a nasty spasm in my shoulder while lifting the box.

natural

A sudden spasm of laughter interrupted the meeting.

natural

His eye started to twitch in a weird little spasm.

natural