Debilitate
Verb
Definition: To make someone or something weak and lacking physical or mental energy.
Synonyms: Weaken, Disable, Enfeeble
Antonyms: Strengthen, Invigorate, Fortify
Examples:
- The illness debilitated him, leaving him bedridden for weeks.
- The economic crisis has debilitated the country's infrastructure.
Mnemonics:
- Think of debilitation as a process of reducing strength and energy.
- Picture a broken robot unable to move or function properly, representing debilitation.
Etymology:
Origin:
The word "debilitate" originated from the Latin word "debilitatus", past participle of "debilitare", which means "to weaken".
Historical Usage:The term has been used in the English language since the early 17th century.
Related Idioms:
Idiom:
"Debilitated state"
Explanation:Refers to a condition or situation where someone or something is in a weakened and incapacitated state.
Misconceptions:
Misconception:
Considering "debilitate" as a permanent state rather than a temporary weakening.
Explanation:Debilitation implies a temporary or ongoing state of weakness, not a permanent state.