paralyze
verb (used with object)
to affect with paralysis.
paralyzing
-
present participleof paralyze.present participle
A verb form that is used in progressive verb constructions and may also function as a modifier or a gerund.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Paz is facing paralyzing country-wide protests and calls for his resignation.
From Barron's ● Jun. 4, 2026
Thoughts on love, nature, trauma, aging, nostalgia and philosophy are all valid starting points, and a surfeit of possibilities can be paralyzing.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Jun. 2, 2026
Polio was the most feared disease in America by the early 1950s, paralyzing thousands of children annually and frequently closing public places to halt its spread.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Apr. 24, 2026
Their paralyzing fear of Carol’s ire is empowering, pathetic and hilarious.
From Los Angeles Times ● Dec. 24, 2025
The news hits Father Monaghan like a thunderbolt—a paralyzing awareness that the Philippines is in instant, terrible danger.
From "At Last She Stood" by Erin Entrada Kelly
