‖ ˈspasma Obs.
[L. spasma, Gr. σπάσµα: see spasm n.]
= spasm n. 1 and 2.
| 1541 R. Copland Guydon's Quest. Chirurg. A iiij, There must he begyn,..for daunger of the spasna [sic], which is moste peryllous. 1625 Purchas Pilgrims I. v. 662 A violent Feuer and Spasma. 1670 J. Smith Eng. Improv. Reviv'd 246 If it fill the Nerves of the Muscles only it becomes the Spasma, or Convulsion. 1728 Chambers Cycl. s.v., There are Spasma's peculiar to certain Members, and distinguished by particular Names. |