word

convulso

convulsive

Definition & meaning

Convulso is an adjective meaning convulsive or marked by sudden, violent, involuntary movements. It can describe bodily spasms, breathing, or laughter.

Figuratively, it means agitated, turbulent, or chaotic, often suggesting intense activity or disorder. For example, a period of rapid change can be described as un periodo convulso.

Grammar & Word origin

Convulso is the masculine singular form of an adjective. Its forms are convulsa (feminine singular), convulsi (masculine plural), and convulse (feminine plural). It agrees in gender and number with the noun it describes.

It comes from Latin convulsus, the past participle of convellere, “to wrench or pull violently.”

Synonyms & antonyms

Synonyms vary with the sense:

  • spasmodico means spasmodic and is especially close when describing bodily movements.
  • agitato means agitated or disturbed; it is broader and does not necessarily imply violence or disorder.
  • tumultuoso suggests uproar or turmoil, especially in situations or events.
  • frenetico emphasizes frantic speed or intensity.
  • caotico emphasizes confusion and lack of order.

Possible antonyms include:

  • calmo — calm or peaceful.
  • regolare — regular or steady, particularly as an opposite to irregular physical movements.
  • ordinato — orderly, the opposite of chaotic.

Common phrases & collocations

  • movimenti convulsi — convulsive or jerky movements
  • respirazione convulsa — labored or spasmodic breathing
  • risata convulsa — a convulsive or uncontrollable laugh
  • periodo convulso — a turbulent or unsettled period

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Examples

Dopo la corsa, il suo respiro è convulso.word

After the run, his breathing is convulsive.

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