The Collaborative International Dictionary
Tonic \Ton"ic\, a. [Cf. F. tonigue, Gr. ?. See Tone.]
Of or relating to tones or sounds; specifically (Phon.), applied to, or distingshing, a speech sound made with tone unmixed and undimmed by obstruction, such sounds, namely, the vowels and diphthongs, being so called by Dr. James Rush (1833) `` from their forming the purest and most plastic material of intonation.''
Of or pertaining to tension; increasing tension; hence, increasing strength; as, tonic power.
(Med.) Increasing strength, or the tone of the animal system; obviating the effects of debility, and restoring healthy functions.
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(Med.) Characterized by continuous muscular contraction; as, tonic convulsions.
Tonic spasm. (Med.) See the Note under Spasm.
Usage examples of "tonic spasm".
The tonic spasm in his face relaxed, and his features smoothed into those of a tired and petulant, and very bewildered, little boy.