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
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
If not treated, the child can experience a progressive paralysis that can lead to breathing difficulties and require weeks of hospitalization.
—
Melody Petersen, Los Angeles Times, 14 June 2026
If left untreated, the illness can progress to widespread muscle weakness and paralysis, potentially affecting breathing and requiring intensive medical care.
—Victoria Forster, Forbes.com, 14 June 2026
The surgery was risky but the alternative was possible paralysis.
—Jessica Guynn, USA Today, 14 June 2026
How rare stomach paralysis on Ozempic really is Rare is the crucial caveat in this whole conversation.
—Ryan Brennan, Charlotte Observer, 13 June 2026
See All Example Sentences for paralysis
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Melody Petersen, Los Angeles Times, 14 June 2026
If left untreated, the illness can progress to widespread muscle weakness and paralysis, potentially affecting breathing and requiring intensive medical care.
—Victoria Forster, Forbes.com, 14 June 2026
The surgery was risky but the alternative was possible paralysis.
—Jessica Guynn, USA Today, 14 June 2026
How rare stomach paralysis on Ozempic really is Rare is the crucial caveat in this whole conversation.
—Ryan Brennan, Charlotte Observer, 13 June 2026
See All Example Sentences for paralysis
Cite this Entry
“Paralysis.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/paralysis. Accessed 15 Jun. 2026.
Copy CitationKids 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
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