convulse

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. [ 1913 Webster ]

With emotions which checked his voice and convulsed his powerful frame. Macaulay. [ 1913 Webster ]

2. To agitate greatly; to shake violently. [ 1913 Webster ]

The world is convulsed by the agonies of great nations. Macaulay.

Syn. -- To agitate; disturb; shake; tear; rend. [ 1913 Webster ]