English vocabulary · C1
Debilitate
/dɪˈbɪl.ə.teɪt/ · v.
To debilitate someone is to make them so weak that normal tasks become hard. Sickness can take away the strength they need to walk or work.
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Example sentences
- The flu can debilitate strong legs.
- Weeks in bed debilitate him.
Word origin and roots
from Latin
- debilis — weak (from Latin)
Synonyms and nuances
- WEAKEN — make less strong (Less Strength)
- DRAIN — take away energy (Energy Gone)
- CRIPPLE — badly reduce normal function (Severe Harm)
Similar words
- weaken
- drain
- cripple
- exhaust
- enfeeble
Lesson notes
To debilitate someone is to make them so weak that normal tasks become hard. Sickness can take away the strength they need to walk or work.
Related: weaken, drain, cripple. Use debilitate when strength fails.
The flu can debilitate strong legs. Weeks in bed debilitate him.
From Latin. Deh-bih-lis- means weak. The flu leaves your legs weak; it can debilitate you for days.