Synonyms of paralysis

paralysis

noun

pə-ˈra-lə-səs 

as in disability

complete or partial loss of physical function (as motion or sensation) in a part of the body

the car accident left one athlete with paralysis from the waist down

Synonyms & Similar Words

• disability
• impairment
• palsy
• weakness
• poliomyelitis
• debility
• feebleness
• cerebral palsy
• debilitation
• lameness
• decrepitude
• multiple sclerosis
• paresis
• hemiplegia
• infirmity
• paraplegia
• frailty
• enfeeblement
• quadriplegia
• diplegia
• frailness
• spastic paralysis

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• mobility
• sensation
• motility

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of paralysis

Analysts say this political fragmentation, which led to the paralysis of parliament after snap elections called by Macron in 2024 backfired, is likely to persist – and is at the core of France’s deepening crisis. — Tim Lister, CNN Money, 19 Oct. 2026

Washington’s paralysis has left local lawmakers to create their own playbooks to ensure robot cars at least follow some rules of the road. — Andrew Hawkins, The Verge, 18 Oct. 2026

Usage can also lead to blood clots, asphyxiation, impaired bowel and bladder function and paralysis. — Melissa Gomez, Los Angeles Times, 13 Oct. 2026

The siblings also ran to raise funds for the Christopher and Dana Reeve Foundation, which is dedicated to curing spinal cord injury through research and improving the quality of life for people impacted by paralysis. — ABC News, 12 Oct. 2026