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Paralytic: meaning, definitions and examples

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paralytic

 

[ pəˈræl.ɪ.tɪk ]

Adjective
Context #1 | Adjective

medical condition

Paralytic refers to a state characterized by paralysis, where an individual loses the ability to move one or more parts of their body. This can result from various medical conditions such as stroke, spinal cord injury, or certain diseases that affect the nervous system. The term can also be used to describe substances that induce paralysis. Understanding the implications of being paralytic is crucial for medical professionals when planning treatment and rehabilitation.

Synonyms

disabled, immobilized, impotent

Examples of usage

  • The patient exhibited paralytic symptoms after the stroke.
  • Paralytic agents are often used in anesthesia.
  • She was diagnosed with a paralytic illness affecting her limbs.

Translations

Translations of the word "paralytic" in other languages:

🇵🇹 paralítico

🇮🇳 असामर्थ्य

🇩🇪 lähmend

🇮🇩 paralitik

🇺🇦 паралітик

🇵🇱 paralityczny

🇯🇵 麻痺した

🇫🇷 paralytique

🇪🇸 paralítico

🇹🇷 felçli

🇰🇷 마비된

🇸🇦 مشلول

🇨🇿 paralytický

🇸🇰 paralytický

🇨🇳 瘫痪的

🇸🇮 paralitičen

🇮🇸 lamsveikur

🇰🇿 паралитикалық

🇬🇪 პარალიტიკური

🇦🇿 paralitik

🇲🇽 paralítico

Etymology

The word 'paralytic' comes from the Greek word 'paralytikos', which is derived from 'paralysis', meaning 'a loosening' or 'disabling'. The prefix 'para-' signifies 'alongside' or 'beside', while 'lysis' comes from 'lyein', meaning 'to loosen' or 'to dissolve'. The term has been used in English since the late 14th century, primarily in medical contexts. Initially, it referred to the state of being disabled or rendered incapable of movement. Over time, its usage expanded to include various conditions and substances that cause paralysis. The evolution of the term reflects advancements in medical understanding and the importance of precise language in describing physical ailments.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #20,065, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.