especially: a state of partial contraction characteristic of normal muscle
Example Sentences
Recent Examples on the WebThe Federal Aviation Agency study notes that kids, especially those under the age of 4, have more flexible skeletons, more relaxed muscle tonus, and a higher proportion of subcutaneous fat, which helps protect internal organs. Dan Koeppel, Popular Mechanics, 14 Feb. 2021
Word History
Etymology
New Latin, from Latin, tension, tone
First Known Use
1876, in the meaning defined above
Medical Definition
tonus
noun
to·nus ˈtō-nəs
1
: tonesense 2a
2
: a state of partial contraction that is characteristic of normal muscle, is maintained at least in part by a continuous bombardment of motor impulses originating reflexly, and serves to maintain body posture