The spelling of the word "internal convulsion" reflects its pronunciation in IPA as /ɪnˈtəːn(ə)l kənˈvʌlʃ(ə)n/. The first syllable is pronounced with a short "i" vowel sound and is followed by a weak or unstressed "t" sound. The second syllable has a long "o" sound and is also unstressed. The third syllable starts with a "v" sound and ends with the "ʌlʃ" sound, often represented as "sh" in non-IPA spellings. "Internal convulsion" refers to sudden and violent movements or spasms within the body, particularly the muscles.
Internal convulsion refers to a violent and involuntary movement or contraction of the muscles, organs, or any part of the body, occurring internally within an individual. This term is usually used metaphorically to describe a state of intense upheaval, turmoil, or disturbance within a person, organization, or system.
In a literal sense, internal convulsions primarily manifest as uncontrollable muscle spasms or contractions that can result in visible shaking, trembling, or jerking of the affected area. These convulsions may be a symptom of various medical conditions like epilepsy, seizures, or certain neurological disorders.
Figuratively, the term portrays a state of extreme emotional, mental, or psychological disturbance, often associated with intense feelings of distress, anxiety, or agitation. It describes an intense internal struggle or conflict, where the person or entity experiences a turmoil that appears uncontrollable or disruptive. This may be due to overwhelming emotions, conflicting beliefs or values, or significant external pressures.
Internal convulsions can occur within individuals facing personal crises, undergoing emotional trauma, or dealing with mental health issues. Similarly, they can be metaphorically used to describe organizational or systemic crises, such as political upheavals, financial instability, or unprecedented challenges.
The term "internal convulsion" illustrates the disruptive nature of the turmoil or disturbance, implying an intense and often chaotic struggle that requires resolution or stabilization for the affected individual, organization, or system.
A slight c. in a child, marked by a barely perceptible spasm, rigidity of the head and fixity of the eyes, with preservation of consciousness or only momentary unconsciousness.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The etymology of the phrase "internal convulsion" can be understood by examining the origins of the individual words.
1. Internal: This word comes from the Latin word "internus", meaning "inner" or "within". It ultimately derives from the combination of the prefix "inter-" (meaning "between" or "within") and the noun "nus" (meaning "relating to"). In English, "internal" is used to describe something occurring or existing within the inside of an object or a person.
2. Convulsion: This word comes from the Latin verb "convellere", which means "to pull violently" or "to tear apart". It comprises the prefix "com-" (meaning "together") and the verb "vellere" (meaning "to pull" or "to tear").