tonus

noun

to·​nus ˈtō-nəs How to pronounce tonus (audio)
: tone sense 9b
especially : a state of partial contraction characteristic of normal muscle

Examples of tonus in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
These examples are automatically compiled from online sources to illustrate current usage. Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
The Federal Aviation Agency study notes that kids, especially those under the age of 4, have more flexible skeletons, more relaxed muscle tonus, and a higher proportion of subcutaneous fat, which helps protect internal organs. Dan Koeppel, Popular Mechanics, 14 Feb. 2021

Word History

Etymology

New Latin, from Latin, tension, tone

First Known Use

1876, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of tonus was in 1876

Dictionary Entries Near tonus

Cite this Entry

“Tonus.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/tonus. Accessed 10 Nov. 2024.

Medical Definition

tonus

noun
to·​nus ˈtō-nəs How to pronounce tonus (audio)
1
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
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