convulsively

In violent spasms

Convulsively describes action marked by sudden, violent, involuntary movements—the way muscles contract during a seizure or sob.

Someone laughing convulsively shakes uncontrollably.

The word often emphasizes intensity rather than literal spasm: She gripped the armrest convulsively during takeoff.

He sobbed convulsively into his hands.

spasmodic

twitch

Involuntary muscular jerk

  • jerkAbrupt pulling motion
  • shudderConvulsive trembling from fear
  • spasmInvoluntary muscle contraction

tremor · seizure · thrash · writhe · flail · shaking · quiver · tremble · judder · wriggle

involuntary

reflex

Involuntary stimulus response

  • flinchInvoluntary retreat from threat
  • winceReflexive recoil from distress
  • startleFrighten suddenly

blink · cough · sneeze · gag · retch · hiccup · stammer · stutter · blurt · gasp

emotional

sob

Convulsive weeping

  • weepShed tears emotionally
  • gaspSudden sharp breath
  • heaveForceful lift or throw

shudder · tremble · wail · cry · gulp · hiccup · snivel · choke · whimper · hyperventilate

violent

explosive

Prone to sudden detonation

paroxysmal · violent · intense · fierce · turbulent · frenzied · vehement · powerful · jarring · seismic

Opposites
manner of movement/action

convulsivelysmoothly

Without friction or difficulty

fluidly · gracefully · steadily · evenly · seamlessly

degree of control

convulsivelydeliberately

Done with intention

intentionally · purposefully · voluntarily · consciously · methodically

intensity/violence of action

convulsivelygently

In a mild manner

softly · mildly · calmly · peacefully · serenely

Family

convulsive

Familiarity
Top 20,000
Profile
Used worldwide · Timeless · Negative · Everyday, not technical · Rated PG