'antispasmodant' originates from the prefix 'anti-' (from Greek anti- meaning 'against') combined with Greek 'spasmos' meaning 'a drawing, convulsion', plus the agent-forming suffix '-ant' (from Latin '-ans').

'antispasmodant' developed later in English usage alongside the related adjective and noun 'antispasmodic'; the element 'spasmod-' comes from Greek 'spasmos' and was combined with 'anti-' and an English/Latin agent suffix to form 'antispasmodant'.

Initially formed to mean 'acting against spasms'; this core meaning has been retained, referring specifically to agents that prevent or relieve spasms.