The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48:

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.
      [1913 Webster]

            With emotions which checked his voice and convulsed
            his powerful frame.                   --Macaulay.
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   2. To agitate greatly; to shake violently.
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            The world is convulsed by the agonies of great
            nations.                              --Macaulay.

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