SPASM

Dictionary of Science, Literature and Art · 1842 · p. 43

(Gr. (nroitrfi/v, a cramp.) An involuntary contraction of the muscles, generally attended by pain. SP A T ANGU S. ( Gr. trrctTocyyof, a species of Echinus. ) The name of a genus of Echinidce, or sea-urchins, having the mouth situated l.-iterally, and but four rows of pores. [s. 1149]