spasmodically
|spas-mod-ic-al-ly|
C1
/spæzˈmɒdɪkli/
(spasmodic)
irregular bursts
Etymology
Etymology Information
'spasmodically' originates from the Greek word 'spasmos,' where 'spasmos' meant 'spasm.'
Historical Evolution
'spasmos' transformed into the Medieval Latin word 'spasmodicus,' and eventually became the modern English word 'spasmodic,' from which 'spasmodically' is derived.
Meaning Changes
Initially, it meant 'related to spasms,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'occurring in irregular bursts.'
Meanings by Part of Speech
Adverb 1
in a spasmodic manner; occurring or done in brief, irregular bursts.
The lights flickered spasmodically during the storm.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Last updated: 2025/01/31 17:21