Meaning & use
cramps
Last updated
“cramps” is a form of “cramp”. See that entry for the full set of meanings.
Meanings
nounplural
Sudden, painful tightening of muscles, often in the legs or stomach.
Grammar: Usually plural: 'I get cramps.' The singular 'cramp' can also be used for one attack.
Patterns
- get cramps
- have cramps
- muscle cramps
She often gets cramps in her legs after running.
The swimmer had to stop because of severe cramps.
Drinking enough water can help prevent muscle cramps.
nounplural
Painful contractions of the uterus during menstruation.
Grammar: Often used with 'menstrual' or in the phrase 'period cramps'.
Patterns
- menstrual cramps
- period cramps
- have cramps
Many women take medication for menstrual cramps.
She stayed home because of bad period cramps.
A heating pad can ease cramps during your period.
Word forms
| singular | cramp |
|---|
Common combinations
- muscle cramps
- Muscle cramps are common during intense exercise.
- get cramps
- I always get cramps when I swim in cold water.
- menstrual cramps
- Menstrual cramps can be relieved with over-the-counter painkillers.
- stomach cramps
- He had stomach cramps after eating something bad.
Synonyms and how they differ
Word family
- cramp noun
- A single instance of painful muscle tightening.
- cramped adjective
- Describing a space that is too small and crowded.
Commonly confused: cramps or cramp?
cramps vs cramp
The singular form refers to one attack or to a verb meaning to restrict; 'cramps' is the usual plural for repeated or general pain.
Practice
After running the marathon, he suffered from painful ______ in his legs.
Choose one answer.
The plural 'cramps' is the usual form for multiple or general muscle pain. 'Cramp' (singular) can be used for one attack, but 'cramps' is more natural here. 'Cramping' is a verb form, and 'cramped' is an adjective.
Make it your own
Write a sentence using “cramps”, then check it and compare it with the examples above.