Main Entry: pa·ral·y·sis

Pronunciation: \pə-ˈra-lə-səs\

Function: noun

Inflected Form(s): plural pa·ral·y·ses \-ˌsēz\

Etymology: Latin, from Greek, from paralyein to loosen, disable, from para- + lyein to loosen — more at lose

Date: 1525

1 : complete or partial loss of function especially when involving the motion or sensation in a part of the body
2 : loss of the ability to move
3 : a state of powerlessness or incapacity to act