Dictionary

tonus

noun to·nus \ˈtō-nəs\

Definition of TONUS

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

New Latin, from Latin, tension, tone
First Known Use: 1876

Rhymes with TONUS

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

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