paroxysmal

[ par-uhk-siz-muhl, puh-rok‐ ]

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.

Other Words From

• par·ox·ys·mal·ly adverb
• post·par·ox·ys·mal adjective
• pre·par·ox·ys·mal adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of paroxysmal¹

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

Example Sentences

Sliding this new series into the paroxysmal dialogue over immigration and diversity would seem easy enough, except for the fact that Vijal Patel didn’t create the show as a clapback to current events.

From Salon

A nurse practitioner thought she might have benign paroxysmal positional vertigo caused by an inner ear imbalance or labyrinthitis, an infection of the inner ear.

From Washington Post

Even the use of music — a very effective mix of country western songs and paroxysmal effects — unequivocally guides the viewer on the path of the protagonist’s madness.

From Los Angeles Times

When the episodes occur occasionally, the condition is known as paroxysmal atrial fibrillation.

From Seattle Times

"So excited to see doc weds and getting Epley maneuver done today," she added of the exercise, which according to Johns Hopkins Medicine, "helps to treat the symptoms of benign paroxysmal positional vertigo."

From Fox News

Related Words

• bouncy
• bumpy