1. to shake violently with sudden, uncontrolled movements
Usage: often used in medical contexts
2. to cause to shake with laughter or strong emotion
Usage: figurative use
3. to disturb or upset violently
Usage: often used of social or political situations

Examples

• The patient began to convulse during the seizure.
• The comedian’s jokes convulsed the entire audience.
• She was convulsed with grief at the news.
• The earthquake convulsed the entire region.
• Political scandals convulsed the government.
• His whole body convulsed with laughter.
• The economic crisis convulsed the nation.