contracture
|con-trac-ture|
C1
🇺🇸
/kənˈtræk.tʃər/
🇬🇧
/kənˈtræk.tʃə/
muscle shortening
Etymology
Etymology Information
'contracture' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'contractura,' where 'con-' meant 'together' and 'trahere' meant 'to draw or pull.'
Historical Evolution
'contractura' transformed into the French word 'contracture,' and eventually became the modern English word 'contracture' through Middle English.
Meaning Changes
Initially, it meant 'to draw together,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'a permanent shortening of a muscle or joint.'
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
a permanent shortening of a muscle or joint, often leading to deformity or rigidity.
The patient developed a contracture in his hand after the injury.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Last updated: 2025/05/03 13:17