torticollis

American  

[tawr-ti-kol-is] / ˌtɔr tɪˈkɒl ɪs /

noun

Pathology.

1. a condition in which the neck is twisted and the head inclined to one side, caused by spasmodic contraction of the muscles of the neck.

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torticollis British  

/ ˌtɔːtɪˈkɒlɪs /

noun

1. pathol an abnormal position of the head, usually with the neck bent to one side, caused congenitally by contracture of muscles, muscular spasm, etc

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Other Word Forms

• torticollar
  adjective

Etymology

Origin of torticollis

1805–15; < New Latin, equivalent to Latin tort ( us ) twisted ( see tort) + -i- -i- + coll ( um ) neck + -is noun suffix

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

torticollis

They often have gut issues and fall victim to ear infections that can lead to torticollis, which is something I regret having seen.

From New York Times ● Apr. 12, 2022

Often plagiocephaly is linked to neck stiffness, a condition called torticollis.

From Washington Post ● Dec. 17, 2021

Born with torticollis, Levi wore a protective helmet for several months.

From New York Times ● May 24, 2013

She has torticollis, a condition that causes the muscles in her neck to spasm constantly and, if untreated, twists her head down to her left shoulder.

From Washington Post ● Nov. 19, 2012

The history of a torticollis patient will usually show that there is some contortion of the muscles of the neck familiarly practiced by him.

From Psychotherapy by James J. (James Joseph) Walsh