Word of the Day: Paroxysm

By Daniel Scocco

A paroxysm is a sudden outburst of something, a violent emotion. It can also refer to the exacerbation of a disease.

Contemplating the economic rubble from our most recent paroxysm of enthusiasm, I wonder whether we should do something about our blind passions. (NY Times)

For now, there will be a paroxysm of anger and mourning. But then Serbia has a choice: sulk for decades in impotent resentment, or take the European road to national reconstruction. It will be many years before Kosovo takes its seat at the United Nations. Russia, as a veto-wielding permanent member of the Security Council, can and will block it. (LA Times)

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2 Responses to “Word of the Day: Paroxysm”

  • Trina

    Can someone please put this word in a USUAL sentence… instead of the sentences provided as examples in the above? How can I use this in my spoken vocabulary?

  • JC

    For most purposes the word “fit” is perfectly acceptable, particularly if the line is to be spoken.

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