1. something that severely damages, weakens, or disables
2. a person or thing that causes someone to become disabled or unable to function normally

Examples

• The economic recession was a crippler for many small businesses.
• That injury could be a career crippler for the athlete.
• The new tax law proved to be a crippler for the manufacturing industry.
• The storm was a crippler, leaving thousands without power for weeks.
• High interest rates can be a crippler for home buyers.
• The disease was a crippler that affected his mobility permanently.