Definition

Describing a feeling of tightness or pain in muscles, often due to overuse or lack of movement.

Example

After running for an hour, I felt a crampy sensation in my legs.

Comparatives & Superlatives

Conversation

I've been feeling really crampy after that workout yesterday.

Oh no, that doesn’t sound good! Did you stretch properly?

Not really, I guess I should have paid more attention to that.

Definitely! Stretching can help prevent that crampy feeling.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

The word 'crampy' originates from the Middle English 'crampe' (meaning a painful contraction of muscles), which is derived from the Old English 'crampian' (meaning to seize or grasp). The suffix '-y' indicates a characteristic or quality. Therefore, 'crampy' describes something that has the quality of causing cramps or is characterized by cramps.

Memory Tip

Think of the word 'cramp' which refers to a painful muscle contraction, and remember that 'crampy' means having the quality of causing cramps.

Visually Confused Words