WordWeb Online

1. A sudden uncontrollable attack
   "convulsions of laughter";
   - paroxysm, fit
    
2. Violent uncontrollable contractions of muscles
    
3. A violent disturbance
   "the convulsions of the stock market";
   - turmoil, upheaval
    
4. A physical disturbance such as an earthquake or upheaval

Derived forms: convulsions

Type of: attack, carry-on [Brit], commotion, disruption, disturbance, flutter, hoo-ha, hoo-hah, hurly burly, ictus, kerfuffle, raptus, seizure, to-do, trouble

Encyclopedia: Convulsion