verb
immobilize
Immobilize (verb) means to stop something moving, or make it unable to move. Example: “The paramedics immobilized his neck before moving him.”
verb
1
To stop something moving, or make it unable to move.
"The paramedics immobilized his neck before moving him."
"A wheel clamp immobilizes the car until the fine is paid."
2
To lock up money in an investment so it can't be used elsewhere.
"The funds were immobilized in a long-term bond."
How to use immobilize
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishTo stop something from moving, whether that's a body part, a vehicle, or money.
UK vs US
UK spelling is often "immobilise"; US spelling is "immobilize".
Common pairings
immobilize a joint
immobilize a vehicle
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Word forms
- Third person singular
- immobilizes
- Past tense
- immobilized
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
The paramedics _____ his neck before moving him.
Etymology
From French immobiliser, from immobile plus -ize.
Synonyms
View more →Antonyms
Related words
Rhymes for immobilize
See all rhymes for immobilize →Frequently asked questions
What does “immobilize” mean?
The word “immobilize” means to stop something moving, or make it unable to move. In plain terms, to stop something from moving, whether that's a body part, a vehicle, or money.
How do you use “immobilize” in a sentence?
Here is “immobilize” used in a sentence: “The paramedics immobilized his neck before moving him.”
What is another word for “immobilize”?
Words with a similar meaning to “immobilize” include halt, stop, arrest and draw up.
What is the opposite of “immobilize”?
The opposite of “immobilize” — its antonyms — are accelerate, continue and move.
What part of speech is “immobilize”?
“Immobilize” is a verb.
Where does the word “immobilize” come from?
The word “immobilize” comes from French. From French immobiliser, from immobile plus -ize.
How many meanings does “immobilize” have?
“Immobilize” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: to stop something moving, or make it unable to move.
