transfix

verb

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

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.
For Catholics and non-Catholics alike, fascination with the pope and rituals such as the papal conclave continue to transfix and intrigue. Marc Ramirez, USA Today, 26 Apr. 2025 Gallo’s signature, transfixing style eschews traditional Hollywood storytelling, allowing Buffalo '66 to unfold at a slow, awkward, often uncomfortable pace that mirrors Billy’s own stunted emotional state. Travis Bean, Forbes, 22 Mar. 2025 There’s just enough harrowing sorrow, eye-popping oddity and acting — whether good or hammy, there’s undeniably a lot of it — to make for a transfixing watch. Alison Herman, Variety, 19 Mar. 2025 Her work as the tragic heroine Cathy Earnshaw in William Wyler’s Wuthering Heights, arguably her most famous film, transfixed me. Mayukh Sen, The Atlantic, 1 Mar. 2025 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 1 May. 2025.

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

More from Merriam-Webster on transfix

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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