Meaning & Definition of word "Paralytic"

to

arrow

    Paralytic

    /ˌpær.əˈlɪt.ɪk/

    noun:

    • 1. A person who is affected by paralysis.
      • Example: The charity provides assistance to paralytics in need of mobility aids.
    • 2. A state or condition characterized by paralysis.
      • Example: The sudden paralytic took him completely by surprise during the athletic competition.

    adjective:

    • 1. Relating to, affected by, or causing paralysis.
      • Example: The paralytic effects of the toxin were evident within minutes.
    • 2. Impaired in movement or sensation, particularly due to nerve damage or disease.
      • Example: After the accident, he experienced paralytic symptoms in his lower limbs.

    Etymology

    From Late Latin 'paralyticus', from Greek 'paralytikos', from 'paralyein' meaning 'to loosen or disable'.

    Common Phrases and Expressions

    deadly paralytic:

    A state of being completely unable to move or function, often used in a metaphorical sense.

    paralytic state:

    A condition of paralysis; a severe reduction in physical capability.

    paralytic attack:

    An occurrence where a person suddenly loses the ability to move, often due to a medical event.

    Related Words

    paralysis:

    The loss of the ability to move in part or most of the body.

    paralyze:

    To cause someone or something to become incapable of movement.

    debilitated:

    In a very weakened and infirm state.

    Slang Meanings of paralytic

    Meaning: Extremely drunk.

    Example Sentence: After the party, he was paralytic and couldn't even walk straight.

    Meaning: Completely incapacitated by an external factor.

    Example Sentence: That news left him paralytic with shock.