paroxysm

One entry found for paroxysm.

Main Entry: par·ox·ysm
Pronunciation: 'pa-r&k-"si-z&m also p&-'räk-
Function: noun
Etymology: Middle English paroxism, from Medieval Latin paroxysmus, from Greek paroxysmos, from paroxynein to stimulate, from para- + oxynein to provoke, from oxys sharp -- more at OXYGEN
1 : a fit, attack, or sudden increase or recurrence of symptoms (as of a disease) : CONVULSION <a paroxysm of coughing>
2 : a sudden violent emotion or action : OUTBURST <a paroxysm of rage>
- par·ox·ys·mal /"pa-r&k-'siz-m&l also p&-"räk-/ adjective