clonus

American  

[kloh-nuhs] / ˈkloʊ nəs /

noun

Pathology.

clonuses plural

1. a rapid succession of flexions and extensions of a group of muscles, usually signifying an affection of the brain or spinal cord.

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clonus British  

/ ˈklɒnɪk, klɒˈnɪsɪtɪ, ˈkləʊnəs /

noun

1. a type of convulsion characterized by rapid contraction and relaxation of a muscle

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Other Word Forms

Derived Forms

• clonicity
  noun
• clonic
  adjective

Inflected Forms

Nouns

• clonuses
  plural

Etymology

Origin of clonus

1810–20; < New Latin < Greek klónos turmoil

Compare meaning

How does clonus compare to similar and commonly confused words? Explore the most common comparisons:

• myoclonus vs. clonus

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

clonus

Upon tapping, the quadriceps tendon caused a brisk marked contraction of thigh muscles, followed by mild clonus.

From Studies in Forensic Psychiatry by Glueck, Bernard

Tapping of one knee tended to set musculature of opposite knee in mild clonus of short duration.

From Studies in Forensic Psychiatry by Glueck, Bernard

No foot clonus, no Babinski; abdominal reflexes present, cremasteric not elicited; catalepsy not always present.

From Studies in Forensic Psychiatry by Glueck, Bernard

The plantar and patellar reflexes were much exaggerated, and there was ankle clonus, most marked in the left limb.

From Surgical Experiences in South Africa, 1899-1900 Being Mainly a Clinical Study of the Nature and Effects of Injuries Produced by Bullets of Small Calibre by Makins, George Henry

Both deep and superficial reflexes exaggerated; ankle clonus both sides; hyperæsthesia of abdomen and face.

From Studies in Forensic Psychiatry by Glueck, Bernard