Definition

A serious disease that causes painful muscle spasms, especially in the jaw and neck, and is caused by a toxin from a specific bacteria that enters the body through wounds.

Example

After stepping on a rusty nail, he was worried about getting tetanus.

Conversation

Did you hear about that incident where someone got tetanus from a rusty nail?

Yeah, it's pretty scary how easily it can happen.

I always thought tetanus was just something from the past, like a rare disease.

Same here, but it reminds us to stay up to date with our vaccinations.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

**Tetanus** → The word 'tetanus' comes from the Greek 'tetanon' (meaning to stretch) and is derived from 'teinein' (meaning to stretch or extend). The term refers to the muscle contractions and stiffness associated with the disease, which causes muscles to become rigid and tense.

Memory Tip

Imagine muscles that are 'stretched' and 'tense' due to the disease — that's why tetanus is associated with muscle stiffness.

Visually Confused Words