hypertonic

[hahy-per-ton-ik]

adjective

1. Physiology.,  of or relating to hypertonia.

2. Physical Chemistry.,  noting a solution of higher osmotic pressure than another solution with which it is compared (hypotonic ).

hypertonic

/ ˌhaɪpətəʊˈnɪsɪtɪ, ˌhaɪpəˈtɒnɪk /

adjective

1. (esp of muscles) being in a state of abnormally high tension

2. (of a solution) having a higher osmotic pressure than that of a specified, generally physiological, solution Compare hypotonic isotonic

Other Word Forms

• hypertonicity noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of hypertonic¹

First recorded in 1850–55; hyperton(ia) + -ic

Example Sentences

Andrew has hypertonic cerebral palsy, which means he suffers from tightening muscles and regular spasms.

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Helman says some folks find that using a neti pot can cause ear discomfort, especially when using “hypertonic” saline, or saline with a high concentration of salt.

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They are hypertonic, with arms and legs held stiffened by overly contracted muscles.

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Now, 15 years later, looking back with more knowledge and expertise, I see that this patient clearly had hypertonic pelvic floor muscles secondary to anxiety and fear.

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I have a hypertonic pelvic floor that has caused me significant pain since my early twenties, and I am currently receiving treatment from a competent, compassionate, and trained pelvic floor physical therapist.

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