Synonyms of immobilize

immobilize

verb

i-ˈmō-bə-ˌlīz 

as in to paralyze

to render powerless, ineffective, or unable to move

town councils felt immobilized by the powers newly granted to the state legislation

Synonyms & Similar Words

• paralyze
• incapacitate
• cripple
• undermine
• weaken
• disable
• hamstring
• attenuate
• undercut
• prostrate
• debilitate
• sap
• maim
• mutilate
• enfeeble
• hobble
• tire
• enervate
• knock out
• lame

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• energize
• galvanize
• invigorate
• vitalize
• strengthen
• fortify
• empower
• restore
• revive
• revitalize
• regenerate
• rejuvenate
• refresh
• freshen
• refreshen

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of immobilize

That, combined with a nearly immobilizing back injury and a relationship turned toxic, left me feeling panicked. — The Christian Science Monitor, Christian Science Monitor, 20 Aug. 2026

Bathed in the glow of a virtual reality that evolves, unassisted, so rapidly, we are increasingly immobilized. — Jan Tumlir, Artforum, 5 Aug. 2026

In other words, failure of our major institutions need not leave the public powerless and immobilized. — Anandita Sabherwal, Time, 3 Aug. 2026

When knees, ankles and other joints with muscles around them are immobilized, those muscles can atrophy. — Matthew Futterman, New York Times, 30 July 2026