paralysis
Paralysis (noun) means the loss of the ability to move part or all of the body. Example: “The accident left him with paralysis from the waist down.”
How to use paralysis
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishThe inability to move (medically), or being stuck and unable to act (figuratively, like "analysis paralysis").
Word forms
paralyses plural
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
The accident left him with _____ from the waist down.
Etymology
From Greek paralysis, from paralyo ("to disable on one side") — a doublet of "palsy."
Synonyms
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Rhymes for paralysis
See all rhymes for paralysis →Frequently asked questions
What does “paralysis” mean?
The word “paralysis” means the loss of the ability to move part or all of the body. In plain terms, the inability to move (medically), or being stuck and unable to act (figuratively, like "analysis paralysis").
How do you pronounce “paralysis”?
“Paralysis” is pronounced puh-RA-luh-suhs (/pəˈɹæləsəs/ in IPA).
How do you use “paralysis” in a sentence?
Here is “paralysis” used in a sentence: “The accident left him with paralysis from the waist down.”
What is another word for “paralysis”?
Words with a similar meaning to “paralysis” include immobility and palsy.
What part of speech is “paralysis”?
“Paralysis” is a noun.
Where does the word “paralysis” come from?
The word “paralysis” comes from Greek. From Greek paralysis, from paralyo ("to disable on one side") — a doublet of "palsy.".
Is “paralysis” a common word?
“Paralysis” is an uncommon word in modern English, usually learned at around the B2 level.
How many meanings does “paralysis” have?
“Paralysis” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: the loss of the ability to move part or all of the body.