What does paralysis mean?
Paralysis is the loss of voluntary movement or sensation in part or all of the body, usually caused by damage to or disease of the nervous system. It can be temporary, as in a brief inability to move after pressure on a nerve, or persistent, as in conditions affecting the muscles and nervous system. The word also has a well-established figurative meaning: a situation in which someone or an organization is unable to act, make decisions, or make progress. “Political paralysis” and “paralysis of the debate” describe systems that have stopped functioning effectively. In ordinary conversation, paralysis may be used to exaggerate reluctance or hesitation, but in medical contexts it refers to a specific impairment of movement or sensation. The term is both precise and vivid, linking the physical loss of muscular control with the broader experience of being unable to move forward.
A condition in which part or all of the body loses voluntary movement or sensation because of damage to or disease of the nervous system.
"Her temporary paralysis was caused by pressure on a nerve in her leg."
Often used with a qualifier such as “temporary,” “complete,” “partial,” or the affected body part.
A figurative inability to act, make decisions, or make progress.
"The committee’s political paralysis delayed the decision for months."
Common in political, institutional, and economic descriptions.
The standard British plural is “paralyses”; “paralysis” is normally used with singular meaning and is often uncounted in general discussion.
"The report documented several cases of temporary paralyses."
From the Greek, paralysis literally meant a loosening or disabling beside the nerves, turning an ancient medical condition into a powerful symbol of being unable to move—or act.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does paralysis come from?
The word comes through Latin from Greek paralyein, a combination of para-, meaning “beside” or “near,” and lyein, meaning “to loosen” or “release.” The underlying medical sense developed from the idea of the nerves being loosened or disabled. The English form appeared in the 16th century, while figurative uses for an inability to act or make progress became established later.
Related word forms
How paralysis is actually used
The medical sense is common in both British and US English. The figurative sense, often used in political, organizational, or economic contexts, conveys paralysis and can suggest either temporary inactivity or a deeper failure of will or coordination.
Easily confused with paralysis
Paralysis is a general condition involving loss of movement or sensation, whereas palsy more specifically names a persistent or recurring form of weakness or trembling affecting a particular part of the body.