cripple

/ˈkrɪpəl/

Definitions

1. verb

to disable or incapacitate, often by injury or illness

“The accident crippled her ability to walk.”

2. noun

a person who has a physical disability or is unable to walk or move properly

“The charity helps people who are crippled by birth defects.”

3. verb

to cause someone to feel anxious, uncertain, or unable to act

“The news of the economic crisis crippled the investor’s confidence.”

4. verb

to weaken or damage something, such as a system or organization

“The company’s financial troubles crippled its ability to compete.”

Synonyms

  • disable
  • harm
  • impair
  • injure

Antonyms

  • empower
  • enable
  • strengthen