cripple (B2)

verb

Pronunciation: /ˈkrɪp.əl/

Definition

To cause severe and lasting damage to someone's body, making movement or normal activity very difficult.

Examples

• The disease can cripple a person's legs, forcing them to use a wheelchair.

• A severe injury could cripple a professional athlete's career.

• The economic sanctions were designed to cripple the country's trade.

How to Use cripple

cripple someone/something (verb)

To cause severe damage or weakness to a person or thing. — "The storm crippled the town's infrastructure."

cripple with (prepositional phrase)

To be severely affected or weakened by something (often abstract, like debt or fear). — "She was crippled with anxiety before her exam."

Synonyms of cripple

Words with a similar meaning to cripple:

• disable
• impair
• incapacitate
• maim

Antonyms of cripple

Words with the opposite meaning to cripple:

• enable
• heal
• restore

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