paroxysm Meaning, Definition & Usage

  1. noun a sudden uncontrollable attack
    convulsion; fit.
    • a paroxysm of giggling
    • a fit of coughing
    • convulsions of laughter

WordNet

Par"ox*ysm noun
Etymology
F. paroxysme, Gr. , fr. to sharpen, irritate; beside, beyond + to sharpen, from sharp.
Definitions
  1. (Med.) The fit, attack, or exacerbation, of a disease that occurs at intervals, or has decided remissions or intermissions. Arbuthnot.
  2. Any sudden and violent emotion; spasmodic passion or action; a convulsion; a fit.
    The returning paroxysms of diffidence and despair. South.

Webster 1913