spasmodic
adjectiveUK /spæzˈmɒd.ɪk/
US /spæzˈmɑː.dɪk/
Happening in short, sudden bursts that stop and start.
The old car made spasmodic noises as it tried to start.
OTHER MEANINGS
2. Caused by or relating to a muscle cramp or sudden tightening.
He felt a spasmodic pain in his leg after running.
3. Happening suddenly and with strong feeling, but not lasting long.
Her spasmodic laughter surprised everyone at the quiet dinner.
4. Not continuous or steady in effort or action.
The team's spasmodic training made it hard to improve.