hypertonic

[ hahy-per-ton-ik ]

adjective

1. Physiology. of or relating to hypertonia.
2. Physical Chemistry. noting a solution of higher osmotic pressure than another solution with which it is compared ( hypotonic ). Compare isotonic ( def 1 ).

hypertonic

/ ˌhaɪpətəʊˈnɪsɪtɪ; ˌhaɪpəˈtɒnɪk /

adjective

1. (esp of muscles) being in a state of abnormally high tension
2. (of a solution) having a higher osmotic pressure than that of a specified, generally physiological, solution Compare hypotonic isotonic

Derived Forms

• hypertonicity, noun

Other Words From

• hy·per·to·nic·i·ty [hahy-per-toh-, nis, -i-tee], noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of hypertonic¹

First recorded in 1850–55; hyperton(ia) + -ic

Example Sentences

Andrew has hypertonic cerebral palsy, which means he suffers from tightening muscles and regular spasms.

From BBC

Helman says some folks find that using a neti pot can cause ear discomfort, especially when using “hypertonic” saline, or saline with a high concentration of salt.

From Washington Post

They are hypertonic, with arms and legs held stiffened by overly contracted muscles.

From New York Times

Now, 15 years later, looking back with more knowledge and expertise, I see that this patient clearly had hypertonic pelvic floor muscles secondary to anxiety and fear.

From Scientific American

I have a hypertonic pelvic floor that has caused me significant pain since my early twenties, and I am currently receiving treatment from a competent, compassionate, and trained pelvic floor physical therapist.

From New York Times