1
2

Synonym Chooser

How does the adjective spasmodic contrast with its synonyms?

The words convulsive and fitful are common synonyms of spasmodic. While all three words mean "lacking steadiness or regularity in movement," spasmodic adds to fitful the implication of rapid or violent activity alternating with inactivity.

spasmodic growth

When is convulsive a more appropriate choice than spasmodic?

The synonyms convulsive and spasmodic are sometimes interchangeable, but convulsive suggests the breaking of regularity or quiet by uncontrolled movement.

convulsive shocks

When is it sensible to use fitful instead of spasmodic?

While in some cases nearly identical to spasmodic, fitful implies intermittence, a succession of starts and stops or risings and fallings.

fitful sleep

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of spasmodic The most common type of spasmodic dysphonia is called adductor dysphonia, which accounts for 80% of cases. Indu Subramanian, The Conversation, 1 May 2025 Abductor spasmodic dysphonia, which is less common, causes the vocal cords to suddenly open. Angela Haupt, TIME, 29 Jan. 2025 Ahead of his confirmation hearing, articles about the sound of his voice and his spasmodic dysphonia have been in the news. Jonathan Granoff, Newsweek, 29 Jan. 2025 There is no cure for spasmodic dysphonia, but there are treatments available. Alix Martichoux, The Hill, 29 Jan. 2025 See All Example Sentences for spasmodic
Recent Examples of Synonyms for spasmodic
Adjective
  • Because, well, our relationship was always so sporadic.
    Eric Andersson, PEOPLE, 4 Nov. 2025
  • Despite sporadic staff shortages at air traffic control facilities across the country since the shutdown began, flight operations have been largely normal.
    Nicole Fallert, USA Today, 3 Nov. 2025
Adjective
  • And while her personality — playful, curious, excitable — certainly comes through, these calls are dominated by interruptions.
    Bilge Ebiri, Vulture, 7 Nov. 2025
  • Even though this is a super chill and calm Full Moon, the energy can be excitable and erratic for most of us, due to the proximity of the Moon to the Earth.
    Lisa Stardust, Refinery29, 4 Nov. 2025
Adjective
  • So Fernandez ended up scoring two goals and incessantly bothering the Charlotte FC players with his ball skills and occasional extracurricular activity.
    Scott Fowler, Charlotte Observer, 8 Nov. 2025
  • As a durable and washable rug brand, Ruggable is one of our favorite destinations for outdoor rugs, kids rugs, and even the occasional doormat or entryway piece.
    Nashia Baker, Architectural Digest, 7 Nov. 2025
Adjective
  • In 2024, Mark looked nervous watching Grace compete in a horse show.
    Madison E. Goldberg, PEOPLE, 6 Nov. 2025
  • Senior dogs, puppies, or nervous rescues may require specialized care.
    Maria Williams, USA Today, 6 Nov. 2025
Adjective
  • These include electric vehicles with extended driving ranges, large-scale renewable energy storage systems that can balance intermittent solar and wind power, and lightweight, flexible power sources for portable and wearable electronics.
    Prabhat Ranjan Mishra, Interesting Engineering, 8 Nov. 2025
  • Countries also need to work on better connecting intermittent renewables — those which work only when the sun shines or the wind blows — with batteries that can store their energy.
    Ella Nilsen, CNN Money, 7 Nov. 2025
Adjective
  • Earthquakes' sudden, rapid shaking can cause fires, tsunamis, landslides or avalanches.
    CA Earthquake Bot, Sacbee.com, 9 Nov. 2025
  • Excluding disasters, sudden surges of this magnitude in requests for food or any other need are rare at 211s, and can signal both public worry and need, as happened in the first weeks of the COVID-19 pandemic.
    Matthew W. Kreuter, CNN Money, 8 Nov. 2025
Adjective
  • Rybakina is one of the purest ballstrikers on the tour, whose all-or-nothing game can veer from erratic to unplayable in the space of a few games.
    Matthew Futterman, New York Times, 10 Nov. 2025
  • Such a loss represents a squandered opportunity for the franchise — and yet another erratic data point in a confusing and unpredictable Panthers season.
    Alex Zietlow, Charlotte Observer, 9 Nov. 2025

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Spasmodic.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/spasmodic. Accessed 16 Nov. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on spasmodic

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!