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tonus

Intermediate (B1)

IPA: /ˈtoʊnəs/

KK: /ˈtoʊnəs/

noun
Definition

A condition of muscle tension or firmness that helps maintain posture and readiness for movement.


Example

The athlete's tonus was evident as he prepared for the race, showing his muscles were ready and firm.


Conversation
Sloth A
I've been reading about how important tonus is for muscle health.
Sloth B
Really? I didn't know that!
Sloth A
Yeah, it helps keep your muscles ready for action.
Sloth B
I guess I should pay more attention to my tonus during workouts.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
tension
firmness
stability
Antonyms
relaxation
flaccidity
weakness
Root Explanation

Tonus comes from Latin 'tonus' (meaning tone or tension), which is derived from the Greek 'tonos' (meaning tension or tone). The word refers to the state of tension or tone in muscles or sound.

Memory Tip

Think of 'tone' and remember that 'tonus' relates to the tension or tone in muscles or sound.

Visually Confused Words
tornus
tonous
onus
totanus
tousy
touse
torus
tongs
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