spasm

The only joy is the momentary spasm of sexual gratification; the only happiness that of (temporarily) allayed jealousy.

A spasm of computer trouble yesterday delayed finishing some thoughts on Mitt Romney's USA Today op-ed about social safety nets.

Akin's view may be outrageous, but its outrageousness is not one man's mental spasm.

For three straight days, a spasm of violence has gripped Cairo, leaving 13 people dead and scores wounded.

Essentially, this is no more than a spasm of mindless and brutal high summer destruction.

Here the Dimbula shot down a hollow, lying almost on her side—righting at the bottom with a wrench and a spasm.

It might be a spasm of pain, and his somewhat pale face became paler; but he did not speak.

What he dreaded was the spasm of dying—the convulsion that was to snap the thousand silver strings in the harp of life.

Richard thought to see him fell the Greek to the stones; but his uplifted arm lowered, the spasm of madness passed.

But what a contrast to this spasm of local statesmanship the earlier years of that drink-sodden century display!