convulsion

noun

con·​vul·​sion kən-ˈvəl-shən 

1

a

: an abnormal violent and involuntary contraction or series of contractions of the muscles

b

: seizure sense 2a

2

a

: a violent disturbance

b

: an uncontrolled fit : paroxysm

convulsionary

kən-ˈvəl-shə-ˌner-ē 

adjective

Synonyms

• bouleversement
• cataclysm
• earthquake
• paroxysm
• storm
• tempest
• tumult
• upheaval
• uproar

Examples of convulsion in a Sentence

the Russian Revolution was one of the major convulsions of the 20th century

Recent Examples on the Web

Rare cases also suffer swelling of the brain called encephalitis — which can lead to convulsions, deafness or intellectual disability. —Alix Martichoux, The Hill, 28 Mar. 2025

In rare cases, children develop brain swelling that can cause convulsions, deafness and intellectual disabilities. —Eduardo Cuevas, USA TODAY, 21 Mar. 2025

Again Meanwhile, Ethereum’s ongoing convulsions amid its identity crisis showed themselves again this week with the announcement of Etherealize, a new entity focused on institutional adoption. —Dave Birnbaum, Forbes, 23 Jan. 2025

Researchers found the drug often leaves users immobile and unresponsive and can cause intense emotional reactions, euphoria, convulsions, and vomiting. —Lea Veloso, StyleCaster, 11 Mar. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1547, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Rhymes for convulsion

• avulsion
• compulsion
• emulsion
• expulsion
• impulsion
• propulsion
• repulsion
• revulsion
• microemulsion

Kids Definition

convulsion

noun

con·​vul·​sion kən-ˈvəl-shən 

1

: an abnormal violent contraction or series of contractions of the muscles that is not under control of the will

2

: a violent disturbance

Medical Definition

convulsion

noun

con·​vul·​sion kən-ˈvəl-shən 

1

: an abnormal violent and involuntary contraction or series of contractions of the muscles

—often used in plural

a patient suffering from convulsions

2

: seizure sense 1