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

As a matter of fact, mental torticollis is a tic which the patient can ordinarily curb by some procedure of his own invention.

From Project Gutenberg

Let but momentary cessation of the muscular spasm be effected, and the torticollis disappears without leaving a trace.

From Project Gutenberg

Mental torticollis consecutive to anthrax of the neck has been described by Briand.

From Project Gutenberg

Oppenheim has signalised the reappearance, after several months of respite, of a torticollis secondary to an attack of influenza.

From Project Gutenberg

To retrace the steps in the evolution of mental torticollis is a task not always easy of accomplishment.

From Project Gutenberg