paralysis

pronunciation

How to pronounce paralysis in British English: UK [pəˈræləsɪs] word uk audio image

How to pronounce paralysis in American English: US [pəˈrælɪsɪs] word us audio image

Noun:

loss of the ability to move a body part

Word Origin

paralysis (n.): 1520s, from Latin paralysis, from Greek paralysis "paralysis, palsy," literally "loosening," from paralyein "disable, enfeeble," from para- "beside" (see para- (1)) + lyein "loosen, untie" (see lose). Figurative use from 1813. Earlier form was paralysie (late 14c., see palsy). Old English equivalent was lyft adl (see left (adj.)) or crypelnes "crippleness."

Synonym

n.

checkmate halt slowdown stop suspension shut-down dormancy paralyzation deadlock stagnation stalemate standstill inertia cessation

n.

infirmity impotence incapacity debility inability powerlessness disability incapability feebleness

n.

insensibility stupefaction numbness insentience dullness

n.

apoplexy disability stroke neural physical palsy poliomyelitis paralytic

Example

1. Ekso is a bionic , wearable robot , or exoskeleton , for people with lower-body paralysis .

2. The " knowing-doing gap " can lead to company paralysis when talk becomes a substitute for action .

3. The cost of mexico 's paralysis is rising .

4. Sleep paralysis can happen just once and never again .

5. It seems to be a nation in paralysis .

more: >How to Use "paralysis" with Example Sentences