Debilitating: meaning, definitions and examples

Used to describe something that severely weakens someone to the extent that they are unable to function normally.

• The illness was so debilitating that she couldn't even get out of bed

Describes a gradual loss of strength or power over time.

• The constant stress was weakening his immune system
• His health has been weakening due to old age

Used to describe something that drains energy, making someone very tired.

• Running a marathon can be extraordinarily exhausting
• The exhausting hike took all day and left them too tired to do anything else

Often used to describe something that causes severe impairment or distress, can be both physical and emotional. Has a slightly negative connotation.

• The accident left him with crippling back pain
• The crippling fear of failure stopped him from pursuing his dreams

Often used in medical or emotional contexts to describe something that causes weakness or incapacity over time.

• Chronic pain can be incredibly debilitating and affect daily life.
• The stress of the job had a debilitating effect on his mental health.

Used to describe something that exhausts someone's energy or resources. Can be used for both physical and emotional exhaustion.

• Dealing with difficult clients all day was mentally draining.
• Running a marathon is physically draining.

Typically describes something that lowers someone's morale or spirit. It has a negative connotation.

• Facing constant criticism can be incredibly demoralizing.
• The team's continuous losses were demoralizing for the players.

Refers to something that causes temporary or permanent inability to move or act. Can be used both literally and metaphorically.

• The fear of public speaking was paralyzing for her.
• He suffered a paralyzing injury during the accident.