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

In the final act, the Netanyahu government hopes that these convulsions will cause other regional powers to reach a permanent accommodation with Israel. —Shalom Lipner, Foreign Affairs, 25 Nov. 2024

His epileptic convulsions happen less often and for shorter intervals — seconds at a time, instead of minutes. —Emiliano Tahui Gómez, Austin American-Statesman, 24 Nov. 2024

That was just one of a series of convulsions that have hit this year’s campaign. —Bill Barrow, Fortune, 4 Nov. 2024

Severe cases can cause pneumonia, convulsions, brain damage or even death, according to the CDC. —Maia Pandey, Journal Sentinel, 19 Sep. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1547, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

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