transfix

verb

trans·​fix tran(t)s-ˈfiks How to pronounce transfix (audio)
transfixed; transfixing; transfixes
Synonyms of transfixnext

transitive verb

1
: to hold motionless by or as if by piercing
he stood transfixed by her gaze
2
: to pierce through with or as if with a pointed weapon : impale
transfixion noun

Examples of transfix in a Sentence

transfixed the inanimate butterfly specimens to the collection board
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Stepping into the Keijsers Koning gallery, a visitor is immediately transfixed by a score of unblinking eyes. Benjamin Lima, Dallas Morning News, 5 Feb. 2026 The idea that animals became transfixed by Francis’ preaching was reiterated in other devotional texts. Vanessa Corcoran, The Conversation, 2 Feb. 2026 Here, the versatile actor portrays Mother Ann with kinetic religious fervor and an ethereal quality that all but transfixes you during the course of the 2¼-hour film. Randy Myers, Mercury News, 20 Jan. 2026 Directed by two-time Olivier Award winner Rupert Goold, the play revisits the true story of a Brooklyn bank robbery that spiraled out of control and transfixed the nation. Dave Quinn, PEOPLE, 9 Jan. 2026 See All Example Sentences for transfix

Word History

Etymology

Latin transfixus, past participle of transfigere, from trans- + figere to fasten, pierce — more at fix

First Known Use

1590, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Time Traveler
The first known use of transfix was in 1590

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Transfix.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/transfix. Accessed 14 Feb. 2026.

Kids Definition

transfix

verb
trans·​fix tran(t)s-ˈfiks How to pronounce transfix (audio)
1
: to pierce through with or as if with a pointed weapon
2
: to hold motionless by or as if by piercing
stood transfixed by her gaze

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