Need another word for Paralyze? Use these synonyms of Paralyze from our thesaurus to say it differently.
Synonyms & Similar Words
immobilize
stun
numb
petrify
shock
incapacitate
disable
cripple
weaken
enfeeble
debilitate
prostrate
lay low
knock out
put out of action
render powerless
incapacitate
inactivate
disenable
hamstring
paralyze
handicap
muzzle
silence
gag
muzzle
stifle
smother
throttle
strangulate
asphyxiate
suffocate
overpower
overwhelm
overmaster
overcome
subdue
conquer
vanquish
defeat
demolish
annihilate
destroy
extinguish
snuff out
Meaning of Paralyze
The primary meaning of the word "paralyze" is to cause someone or something to be unable to move or function.
Definitions
- To cause someone or something to be unable to move or function, typically due to injury, illness, or fear
- To make someone or something powerless or ineffective
- To affect someone or something so strongly that they are unable to act or react
Etymology of Paralyze
The word "paralyze" comes from the Greek words "para" meaning "beside" and "lysis" meaning "loosening", and the Latin word "paralyzo" meaning "to loosen beside"
Historically, the word "paralyze" was first used in the 15th century to describe a condition where a person's limbs were weakened or numb, and over time its meaning has expanded to include a range of related concepts
Example Uses
- The accident paralyzed him from the waist down
- The news paralyzed her with fear
- The company's finances were paralyzed by the economic downturn
- The strike paralyzed the city's transportation system
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
energize
revitalize
stimulate
activate
enable
empower
strengthen
invigorate
animate
mobilize
liberate
free
unfetter
unshackle
unleash
restore
rejuvenate
refresh
revamp
renovate
renew
regenerate
reactivate
reanimate
resuscitate
revive