Definition

A medical condition where muscles spasm and tremble due to problems with calcium levels in the body.

Example

The doctor diagnosed her with tetany after she experienced severe muscle spasms.

Conversation

I read an article about something called tetany that I found really interesting.

Oh really? What is it exactly?

It's this condition where your muscles have painful spasms due to calcium issues.

That sounds really uncomfortable! I hope people can find ways to manage tetany.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Tetany → It is derived from the Greek word "tetanos" (meaning to stretch or tense). The term refers to a condition characterized by prolonged muscle contraction or spasms.

Memory Tip

Think of the Greek word for 'to stretch' — tetany describes a state where muscles are in a prolonged state of tension or contraction.

Visually Confused Words