convulsion

noun kohn-vool-SYOHN Rare

Origin: Latin convulsio, from convellere (to pull violently)

Also means

upheaval

Usage Note

Convulsion is used in both medical contexts (an epileptic seizure) and figuratively for violent social or political upheaval. The plural convulsions is more common — doctors speak of convulsions fébriles (febrile seizures). A related adjective is convulsif, meaning spasmodic or convulsive.

Examples

"L'enfant a eu une convulsion pendant la nuit."

Natural Translation

The child had a convulsion during the night.

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