paroxysmal

American  

[par-uhk-siz-muhl, puh-rok‐] / ˌpær əkˈsɪz məl, pəˌrɒk‐ /

Rarely paroxysmic

adjective

1. sudden and uncontrolled.

   In 2 years of continuous observations, volcanic activity included minor explosions, persistent degassing, paroxysmal eruptions, and lava flows.

   This region of the world is going through paroxysmal changes, and ongoing humanitarian aid is a critical need.

2. Medicine/Medical. occurring periodically, especially with brief episodes; recurrent.

   Paroxysmal cough was observed in 89% of the infants studied.

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Other Word Forms

• paroxysmally
  adverb
• postparoxysmal
  adjective
• preparoxysmal
  adjective

Etymology

Origin of paroxysmal

First recorded in 1570–80; paroxysm ( def. ) + -al ¹ ( def. )

Example Sentences

Paroxysmal convulsions are usually followed, in both cases, by long periods of tranquillity.

From Principles of Geology or, The Modern Changes of the Earth and its Inhabitants Considered as Illustrative of Geology by Lyell, Charles, Sir

Paroxysmal tachycardias are certainly caused by these substances, and the conditions of auricular fibrillation and auricular flutter may be found frequently present if such hearts are carefully examined with cardiographic instruments.

From Disturbances of the Heart by Osborne, Oliver T. (Oliver Thomas)

Paroxysmal tachycardia is a name applied to very rapid heart attacks in persons who are more or less subject to their recurrence.

From Disturbances of the Heart by Osborne, Oliver T. (Oliver Thomas)

Paroxysmal sneezing is another form in which asthma may show itself, and, curiously enough, this form occurs more frequently in women, asthma of the more recognized type in men.

From Encyclopaedia Britannica, 11th Edition, Volume 2, Slice 7 "Arundel, Thomas" to "Athens" by Various

Related Words

• bouncy
• bumpy