cripple

[krip-uhl] / ˈkrɪp əl /

VERB

physically disable

Synonyms

STRONGEST

debilitate disable immobilize impair incapacitate paralyze sap

STRONG

dismember enfeeble hurt injure lame maim mangle mutilate palsy prostrate sideline weaken

WEAK

dislimb hamstring unstrengthen

Antonyms

STRONGEST

aid assist cure heal help mend mobilize strengthen

STRONG

repair

WEAK

allow capacitate enable encourage support

VERB

hinder action, progress

Synonyms

STRONGEST

damage destroy halt hamstring impair ruin sideline stifle

STRONG

cramp spoil vitiate

WEAK

bring to standstill put out of action

Antonyms

STRONGEST

build construct help improve repair

WEAK

aid allow assist capacitate enable encourage strengthen support

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Submarines helped cripple the Japanese economy late in World War II, he added, and the British used blockades centuries ago to flex their economic might.

From Barron's • Apr. 30, 2026

Private preschool owners say the rush of 4-year-olds joining public schools threatens to cripple their businesses.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 22, 2026

“It looks like an attempt to cripple Anthropic,” U.S.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 24, 2026

Economic sanctions have helped to cripple its economy.

From MarketWatch • Mar. 2, 2026

Bran was back at Winterfell, a cripple, yet safe.

From "A Clash of Kings" by George R.R. Martin

cripple

Example Sentences

Related Words