Con*vulse" (?), v. t. [imp.
& p. p. Convulsed (?); p. pr. & vb.
n. Convulsing.] [L. convulsus, p. p. of
convellere to tear up, to shake; con- +
vellere to pluck, pull.] 1. To
contract violently and irregulary, as the muscular parts of an
animal body; to shake with irregular spasms, as in excessive
laughter, or in agony from grief or pain.
With emotions which checked his voice and
convulsed his powerful frame.
Macaulay.
2. To agitate greatly; to shake
violently.
The world is convulsed by the agonies of
great nations.
Macaulay.
Syn. -- To agitate; disturb; shake; tear; rend.