Convulsion

Part of speech: noun

Pronunciation: /kənˈvʌlʃən/

Definitions

1. A sudden and intense involuntary muscular contraction can signify a dramatic upheaval in social or political contexts as well as a natural disaster
2. An uncontrollable series of muscle contractions can represent chaotic shifts in societal structures or political landscapes, along with severe natural events
3. A sudden, uncontrollable twitch or jerk of muscles ; a powerful and often disruptive change in society or government

Etymology: "Convulsion" comes from Latin "convulsio," a noun built from the verb "convellere," meaning "to pull violently together" or "to tear up." The verb combines "con-," meaning "together," with "vellere," "to pull or tug." Its original sense was physical and forceful: something wrenched or torn loose, not a spasm in the body. The medical sense developed from that idea of violent pulling. A convulsion is a sudden, uncontrolled contraction of the muscles, as if they were being yanked by an invisible force. The same wrenching image carried over into wider uses, so the word came to describe a violent disturbance or upheaval as well, such as a political or social upheaval that shakes an entire order.

Synonyms: spasm, seizure, fit

Antonyms: calm, stillness