transfix

verb

trans·​fix tran(t)s-ˈfiks 

transfixed; transfixing; transfixes

transitive verb

1

: to hold motionless by or as if by piercing

he stood transfixed by her gaze

2

: to pierce through with or as if with a pointed weapon : impale

transfixion

tran(t)s-ˈfik-shən 

noun

Synonyms

• gore
• harpoon
• impale
• jab
• lance
• peck
• pick
• pierce
• pink
• puncture
• run through
• skewer
• spear
• spike
• spit
• stab
• stick
• transpierce

Examples of transfix in a Sentence

transfixed the inanimate butterfly specimens to the collection board

Recent Examples on the Web

As young lovers and strangers stare at her body, the frame remains transfixed on her expression, one that initially bears the naive allure of a young muse or a cinematic debutante who exists, first and foremost, for the camera’s gaze. —Siddhant Adlakha, Variety, 21 May 2024

The cruel irony of The Kingdom is that a normal family life will never be possible for father and daughter — as evidenced by a transfixing monologue that Pierre-Paul delivers while the two are hiding out together in a vacation campground. —Jordan Mintzer, The Hollywood Reporter, 20 May 2024

Word History

Etymology

Latin transfixus, past participle of transfigere, from trans- + figere to fasten, pierce — more at fix

First Known Use

1590, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Kids Definition

transfix

verb

trans·​fix tran(t)s-ˈfiks 

1

: to pierce through with or as if with a pointed weapon

2

: to hold motionless by or as if by piercing

stood transfixed by her gaze