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to make someone or something physically weak.
synonyms:weakendisable
The word 'debilitate' comes from the Latin 'debilitare', which means 'to weaken'. It is derived from 'debilis', meaning 'weak' or 'feeble'.
This word is typically used in medical and psychological contexts, but can also be found in everyday language when discussing anything that causes a loss of strength or vitality.
While 'debilitate' is used in more specialized contexts, it is not commonly used in everyday conversation, making it less familiar to the general public.
The illness can debilitate even the strongest athletes, leaving them unable to compete.
The harsh winter conditions debilitate the infrastructure of the city, leading to numerous power outages.
Chronic stress can debilitate mental health, making it difficult for individuals to function effectively.
The word 'debilitate' has an intriguing history that ties back to the Latin language, where it literally means 'to make weak'. Often used in medical discussions, it paints a vivid picture of loss of strength, whether physical or mental. While you might not hear it in everyday chit-chat, it certainly finds its place in conversations about health and wellness. So, the next time you come across someone who feels depleted, remember that they might just be feeling a bit 'debilitated'!