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
Leaders must rigorously prioritize and communicate clearly, ensuring optionality does not devolve into paralysis or inefficiency.
—
Bryce Hoffman, Forbes.com, 14 June 2025
This type of hallucination is a hallmark for many people with sleep paralysis.
—Kristen Rogers, CNN Money, 8 June 2025
Try to steer clear of the analysis paralysis brought on by this transit.
—Valerie Mesa, People.com, 4 June 2025
Political paralysis is a problem anytime but doubly so when tensions are raised on the peninsula.
—Charlie Campbell, Time, 29 May 2025
See All Example Sentences for paralysis
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Bryce Hoffman, Forbes.com, 14 June 2025
This type of hallucination is a hallmark for many people with sleep paralysis.
—Kristen Rogers, CNN Money, 8 June 2025
Try to steer clear of the analysis paralysis brought on by this transit.
—Valerie Mesa, People.com, 4 June 2025
Political paralysis is a problem anytime but doubly so when tensions are raised on the peninsula.
—Charlie Campbell, Time, 29 May 2025
See All Example Sentences for paralysis
Cite this Entry
“Paralysis.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/paralysis. Accessed 18 Jun. 2025.
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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