Spastic Meaning in English
word
Definition
Describes someone with muscle stiffness or spasms, often due to a medical condition like cerebral palsy. Informally and offensively, it can mean someone behaving awkwardly or clumsily.
Usage & Nuances
In medical contexts, 'spastic' is a formal term. However, in informal English, it's often used as an insult and is considered offensive and outdated. Avoid using it to describe people outside medical situations. Common collocations: 'spastic muscles,' 'spastic movements.'
Example Sentences
He has spastic muscles in his legs due to cerebral palsy.
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Physical therapy can help with spastic movements.
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Doctors often treat spastic conditions with medication.
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Please don’t use the word spastic to insult someone—it’s really offensive.
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He made a spastic gesture with his hand because of his condition.
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In the past, kids would call each other spastic on the playground, but now people know that’s not okay.
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