convulsion Meaning, Definition & Usage

noun a sudden uncontrollable attack
paroxysm; fit.
- a paroxysm of giggling
- a fit of coughing
- convulsions of laughter
noun violent uncontrollable contractions of muscles
noun a violent disturbance
turmoil; upheaval.
- the convulsions of the stock market
noun a physical disturbance such as an earthquake or upheaval

L. convulsio: cf. F. convulsion.

(Med.) An unnatural, violent, and unvoluntary contraction of the muscular parts of an animal body.
Any violent and irregular motion or agitation; a violent shaking; a tumult; a commotion.
Those two massy pillars, With horrible convulsion, to and fro He tugged, he shook, till down they came. Milton.

Times of violence and convulsion. Ames.
Syn. -- Agitation; commotion; tumult; disturbance.