PAROXYSM

paroxysm, fit, convulsion

(noun) a sudden uncontrollable attack; “a paroxysm of giggling”; “a fit of coughing”; “convulsions of laughter”

Source: WordNet® 3.1


Etymology

Noun

paroxysm (plural paroxysms)

A random or sudden outburst (of activity).

An explosive event during a volcanic eruption.

A sudden recurrence of a disease, such as a seizure or a coughing fit.

Source: Wiktionary


Par"ox*ysm, n. Etym: [F. paroxysme, Gr.

1. (Med.)

Definition: The fit, attack, or exacerbation, of a disease that occurs at intervals, or has decided remissions or intermissions. Arbuthnot.

2. Any sudden and violent emotion; spasmodic passion or action; a convulsion; a fit. The returning paroxysms of diffidence and despair. South.

Source: Webster’s Unabridged Dictionary 1913 Edition



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Word of the Day

14 November 2024

FRISK

(noun) the act of searching someone for concealed weapons or illegal drugs; “he gave the suspect a quick frisk”


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Coffee Trivia

Coffee starts as a yellow berry, changes into a red berry, and then is picked by hand to harvest. The red berry is de-shelled through a water soaking process and what’s left inside is the green coffee bean. This bean then dries in the sun for 3-5 days, where it is then packed and ready for sale.

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