As a Verb or Adjective: 1. To happen suddenly for short periods of time at irregular intervals. English = (be) spasmodic, (be) intermittent. 2. Of an activity, to stop and start several times, usually because something else interrupts. English = (be) stop-start, (be) interrupted. As Modifier: 1. Used next to a verb to mean it happens suddenly for short periods of time at regular intervals. English = spasmodically, intermittently.