paralyze
verb/ˈpærəlaɪz/
Frequency rank: #17,914 most common English word
Meaning
to cause someone or something to be unable to move or function.
Example sentence
The sudden loud noise seemed to paralyze everyone in the room with fear.
Synonyms & related words
Practice this word in the quiz
More words in ranks 17,901–18,000
- octagonalHaving eight sides and eight angles.
- oldieSomething old, especially a song or film that is still popular or fondly remembered.
- operableable to be used or operated; in working condition.
- overhearto hear someone's conversation without them knowing or intending it
- pacifismThe belief that war and violence are unjustifiable and that disputes should be settled peacefully.
- postnatalrelating to the period immediately after childbirth.
- preferentiallyin a way that gives advantage or priority to a particular person or thing over others.
- prelateA high-ranking member of the clergy, such as a bishop or archbishop.
- premonitionA feeling that something, especially something bad, will happen in the future.
- proportionalitythe quality of being in proper balance or ratio between parts or elements.