1. to cause someone or something to be unable to move or function normally
Usage: third person singular present tense of ‘paralyse’; British spelling
2. to make someone unable to think or act normally due to shock, fear, or confusion
Usage: figurative use

Examples

• The stroke paralyses his left arm completely.
• Fear paralyses her whenever she has to speak in public.
• The accident paralyses traffic for hours.
• The poison paralyses the nervous system.
• Indecision paralyses the committee’s ability to act.
• The injury paralyses movement in his legs.
• Anxiety paralyses many students during exams.