tonus

noun to·nus \ ˈtō-nəs \

Definition of tonus

: tone 9b; especially : a state of partial contraction characteristic of normal muscle

Origin and Etymology of tonus

New Latin, from Latin, tension, tone

NEW! Time Traveler

First Known Use: 1876

in the meaning defined above

See Words from the same year

Medical Dictionary

tonus

noun to·nus \ ˈtō-nəs \

medical Definition of tonus

1 : tone 2a

2 : a state of partial contraction that is characteristic of normal muscle, is maintained at least in part by a continuous bombardment of motor impulses originating reflexly, and serves to maintain body posture — called also muscle tone; compare clonus