trismus

[ triz-muhs, tris- ]

noun

, Pathology.

, plural tris·mus·es.

1. a spasm of the jaw muscles that makes it difficult to open the mouth.
2. lockjaw.

trismus

/ ˈtrɪzməs /

noun

1. pathol the state or condition of being unable to open the mouth because of sustained contractions of the jaw muscles, caused by a form of tetanus Nontechnical namelockjaw

Derived Forms

• ˈtrismic, adjective

Other Words From

• trismic adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of trismus¹

1685–95; < New Latin < Greek trismós a grinding

Word History and Origins

Origin of trismus¹

C17: from New Latin, from Greek trismos a grinding

Example Sentences

The symptoms of poisoning by this species are spasms, similar to those of trismus, and agonizing general pains.

From Project Gutenberg

Trismus, tris′mus, n. tetanic spasm of the muscles of mastication, lockjaw.

From Project Gutenberg

For traumatic trismus, use the B D current, of vigorous force.

From Project Gutenberg

The doctor goes into an explanation, which lasts a quarter of an hour, of the trismus, employing the most scientific terms.

From Project Gutenberg

In a few cases epileptic attacks and trismus have been observed.

From Project Gutenberg