paralysis

noun

pa·​ral·​y·​sis pə-ˈra-lə-səs 

plural paralyses pə-ˈra-lə-ˌsēz 

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

Synonyms

• palsy

Examples of paralysis in a Sentence

The disease causes a paralysis of the legs.

The whole country is in a state of paralysis.

They are trying to end the political paralysis that has been gripping the country.

Recent Examples on the Web

This could result in serious health complications, such as: vomiting, lack of coordination and balance, and in rare cases, partial paralysis, collapse and even death, says Martin. —Caroline C. Boyle, USA Today, 26 June 2025

Related article Counterfeit or mishandled Botox injections linked to harmful reactions in nine states Botulism is a life-threatening condition caused by toxins made by Clostridium botulinum bacteria that attack the nervous system and cause paralysis. —Amarachi Orie, CNN Money, 20 June 2025

Download it now for the most binge-worthy celeb content, exclusive video clips, astrology updates and more! ALS, also known as Lou Gehrig's disease, is a rare degenerative disease that causes progressive paralysis of the muscles. —Gabrielle Rockson, People.com, 19 June 2025

Fortunately, there’s a better way -- one that avoids both paralysis and overreaction. —Margaret Busse, National Review, 12 June 2025

Word History

Etymology

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

First Known Use

1525, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing paralysis

• infantile paralysis
• paralysis agitans
• spastic paralysis

Rhymes for paralysis

• analysis
• dialysis
• cryptanalysis
• urinalysis
• electrodialysis
• haemodialysis
• hemodialysis
• microanalysis
• psychoanalysis

Kids Definition

paralysis

noun

pa·​ral·​y·​sis pə-ˈral-ə-səs 

plural paralyses -ə-ˌsēz 

: complete or partial loss of function especially when involving motion or sensation in a part of the body

Medical Definition

paralysis

noun

pa·​ral·​y·​sis pə-ˈral-ə-səs 

plural paralyses -ˌsēz 

: complete or partial loss of function especially when involving the power of motion or of sensation in any part of the body see hemiplegia, paraplegia, paresis sense 1