Convulse \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.