Convulse

02319 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.