torticollis

[ tawr-ti-kol-is ]

noun

, Pathology.

1. a condition in which the neck is twisted and the head inclined to one side, caused by spasmodic contraction of the muscles of the neck.

torticollis

/ ˌtɔːtɪˈkɒlɪs /

noun

1. pathol an abnormal position of the head, usually with the neck bent to one side, caused congenitally by contracture of muscles, muscular spasm, etc

Derived Forms

• ˌtortiˈcollar, adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of torticollis¹

1805–15; < New Latin, equivalent to Latin tort ( us ) twisted ( tort ) + -i- -i- + coll ( um ) neck + -is noun suffix

Word History and Origins

Origin of torticollis¹

C19: New Latin, from Latin tortus twisted (from torquēre to twist) + collum neck

Example Sentences

They often have gut issues and fall victim to ear infections that can lead to torticollis, which is something I regret having seen.

From New York Times

Often plagiocephaly is linked to neck stiffness, a condition called torticollis.

From Washington Post

Mellencamp said her son Cruz had once suffered from torticollis, which causes a baby's head to tilt downward, and assumed Dove suffered from the same condition.

From Fox News

The condition, known as torticollis, makes the neck twist, causing a bunny’s head to tilt dramatically to one side.

From National Geographic

She was circling and drooling, had watery eyes, and showed signs of torticollis.

From Washington Post