paralysis
Meaning
the loss of the ability to move (and sometimes to feel anything) in part or most of the body, typically as a result of illness, poison, or injury.
a state of inability to act, function, or make progress.
Structure
Usage
the stroke resulted in a temporary paralysis of his left side.
a paralysis of fear gripped the nation after the shocking news.
political disagreements have caused a complete paralysis in the legislative process.
Etymology
the word paralysis originates from ancient greek 'paralysis', which itself is a compound of 'para-' (beside, beyond) and 'lysis' (a loosening or releasing). the literal greek concept was of a "loosening from the side" or a disabling release of control over the limbs. this entered latin as 'paralysis' with the same medical meaning. the semantic logic evolved from the physical sense of limbs being "loosened" or made slack and unresponsive, to the modern abstract meanings encompassing both physical immobility and a state of incapacitated inaction in systems or processes.
Analysis
para- (prefix of greek origin meaning 'beside, alongside, altered, abnormal'); -lysis (suffix of greek origin meaning 'a loosening, unbinding, dissolution').