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definitions

paralyze

[ par-uh-lahyz ]
/ ˈpær əˌlaɪz /
|

verb (used with object), par·a·lyzed, par·a·lyz·ing.

to affect with paralysis.
to bring to a condition of helpless stoppage, inactivity, or inability to act: The strike paralyzed communications.

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Nearby words

  1. paralytic,
  2. paralytic abasia,
  3. paralytic dementia,
  4. paralytic ileus,
  5. paralyzant,
  6. paramagnet,
  7. paramagnetic,
  8. paramagnetism,
  9. paramaribo,
  10. paramastitis
Also especially British, par·a·lyse.

Origin of paralyze

1795–1805; back formation from paralysis, modeled on analyze
SYNONYMS FOR paralyze
2. See shock1.
Related forms
Dictionary.com Unabridged Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2019
Word Origin and History for paralyzation

paralyze

v.

1804, from French paralyser (16c.), from Old French paralisie "paralysis," from Latin paralysis (see paralysis). Figurative use from 1805. Related: Paralyzed; paralyzing.

Online Etymology Dictionary, © 2010 Douglas Harper
Medicine definitions for paralyzation

paralyze

[ păr′ə-līz′ ]

v.

To affect with paralysis; cause to be paralytic.
The American Heritage® Stedman's Medical Dictionary Copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Company.