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

• disability
• impairment
• palsy
• weakness

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

Rare cases result in brain swelling or meningitis that can lead to paralysis or death. —Elizabeth B. Kim, Cincinnati Enquirer, 13 Aug. 2025

Black reality television is in a state of paralysis. —Essence, 11 Aug. 2025

Spinal neurofibromas can put pressure on your spinal cord, causing neurological symptoms like numbness, weakness, or paralysis. —Sarah Bradley, Health, 10 Aug. 2025

In her recovery from the shooting, Giffords has also worked to overcome paralysis and aphasia, a condition that impacts her ability to speak. —Lillian Ashworth, Oc Register, 8 Aug. 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