Meaning of convulsion in English

1. Pronunciation

   /kənˈvəlʃən/

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1. Noun

   convulsion

   Etymology

   mid 16th century (originally in the sense ‘cramp, spasm’): from Latin convulsio(n-), from the verb convellere (see convulse)

   Definitions

   1. a sudden uncontrollable attack

   Examples

   • « a paroxysm of giggling »
   • « a fit of coughing »
   • « convulsions of laughter »
2. 2. violent uncontrollable contractions of muscles
3. 3. a violent disturbance

   Examples

   • « the convulsions of the stock market »
4. 4. a physical disturbance such as an earthquake or upheaval