tonicity

[ toh-nis-i-tee ]

noun

1. tonic quality or condition.
2. the state of bodily tone.
3. Physiology. the normal elastic tension of living muscles, arteries, etc., by which the tone of the system is maintained.

tonicity

/ təʊˈnɪsɪtɪ /

noun

1. the state, condition, or quality of being tonic
2. physiol another name for tonus

Word History and Origins

Origin of tonicity¹

First recorded in 1815–25; tonic + -ity

Example Sentences

The heart is a muscular organ possessing certain properties, rhythmicity, excitability, contractility, conductivity and tonicity, as pointed out by Gaskell, in virtue of which it is able to maintain a regular automatic beat independently of nerve stimulation.

From Project Gutenberg

The intestine loses its tonicity; it no longer has power to contract upon or to expel its contents; it becomes paralysed, and the dung consequently accumulates within it, distending it, and adding to its weakness by constant tension.

From Project Gutenberg

The abdominal walls lose their tonicity because they are so compressed that they cannot have a perfect circulation, the bowels sink down still further into the pelvis, and pull upon their attachment in the small of the back, creating backache.

From Project Gutenberg

He had nearly doubled in weight and in lung capacity and a large part of his increased weight was in great bulk of muscle of high tonicity—muscle which he had gained by heavy physical work upon a ranch.

From Project Gutenberg

His sexual organs had completely regained their tonicity and without doubt, their virility.

From Project Gutenberg

Related Words

• energy
• fitness
• strength
• well-being