convulse
UK: kənˈvʌls | US: kənˈvʌls
vt. to shake violently or uncontrollably (of the body, muscles, etc.)
vi. to experience violent, involuntary contractions (of muscles or organs)
vt. to cause (someone or something) to shake violently
convulse = con<together> + vulse<pull>
- con<together>: Latin prefix meaning "with" or "together."
- vulse<pull>: Derived from Latin vulsus, past participle of vellere ("to pull, tear").
Etymology Origin:
The word convulse originates from Latin convulsus, the past participle of convellere ("to tear loose, pull violently"). It combines con- (intensifying "together") and vellere ("to pull"), reflecting the violent, spasmodic pulling or shaking action. Over time, it evolved to describe involuntary bodily contractions or upheavals, both literal (physical spasms) and figurative (social or emotional turmoil).
The patient began to convulse during the seizure.
Laughter convulsed her entire body.
The earthquake convulsed the city, toppling buildings.
His face convulsed with anger.
The political scandal convulsed the nation.