convulsion

con·vul·sion

noun \kən-ˈvəl-shən\

Definition of CONVULSION

1

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

2

a : a violent disturbance b : an uncontrolled fit : paroxysm

— con·vul·sion·ary \-shə-ˌner-ē\ adjective

Examples of CONVULSION

1. <the Russian Revolution was one of the major convulsions of the 20th century>

First Known Use of CONVULSION

1547

Related to CONVULSION

Synonyms: bouleversement, cataclysm, earthquake, paroxysm, storm, tempest, tumult, upheaval, uproar

Related Words: insurgency, insurrection, mutiny, overthrow, overturn, rebellion, revolt, revolution, subversion, unrest, uprising, upset; fit, seizure, spasm; eruption, flare-up, outbreak, outburst; bluster, bobbery, bustle, coil, commotion, furor, furore, fuss, hubbub, hullabaloo, hurly-burly, pandemonium, rout, row, ruckus, ruction, rumpus, shindy, squall, stew, stir, to-do, turmoil, welter, williwaw; quaking, rocking, shaking, trembling

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Other Medicine Terms

analgesia, angina, diabetes, hepatitis, homeopathy, logorrhea, palliate, pandemic

Rhymes with CONVULSION

avulsion, compulsion, emulsion, evulsion, expulsion, impulsion, propulsion, repulsion, revulsion