Characterized by sudden, violent, and uncontrolled movements or actions; marked by spasms or jerking motions.
From Latin convulsus, past participle of convellere (to pull together violently), combining con- (together) and vellere (to pull). The word entered English in the 17th century to describe the physical nature of seizures and has been extended to describe any violent, involuntary action.
The word convulsive appears throughout history in medical texts, art, and literature as a way to describe both literal seizures and emotional upheaval—notice how we use it metaphorically for 'convulsive laughter' or 'convulsive sobs' to capture intensity that words like 'violent' can't quite reach.
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