Source : Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (1913)

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.