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debilitated

adjective

/dɪˈbɪlɪteɪtɪd/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of debilitated

Extreme weakness, exhaustion, or incapacitation.
"The flu left her feeling debilitated, unable to get out of bed for days."

Detailed meaning of debilitated

When someone or something is debilitated, they are greatly weakened physically, mentally, or emotionally, to the point where their normal functioning is significantly impaired. It implies a condition of severe depletion of energy, vitality, or strength, often resulting from illness, injury, or prolonged exertion. A debilitated person may experience extreme fatigue, lethargy, and a lack of energy to engage in regular activities. Similarly, a debilitated system or organization may struggle to operate effectively or efficiently due to internal weaknesses or external factors. The term 'debilitated' suggests a state of vulnerability and diminished capacity, where one's ability to perform daily tasks or pursue goals is greatly hindered.

Example sentences containing debilitated

1. The hiker's debilitated state forced him to stop and rest frequently on the trail.
2. The athlete suffered a debilitated knee injury that required surgery and months of rehabilitation.
3. The company's debilitated financial situation led to layoffs and downsizing.
4. The old dog's debilitated condition made it difficult for him to walk or climb stairs.
5. The patient's debilitated immune system made them susceptible to frequent infections.
6. The debilitated car broke down on the side of the road, leaving the driver stranded.

History and etymology of debilitated

The adjective 'debilitated' is derived from the Latin word 'debilitatus,' which is the past participle form of 'debilitare.' This Latin term is composed of two elements: 'de,' meaning 'completely' or 'thoroughly,' and 'bilitare,' related to 'bilitas,' which signifies 'ability' or 'strength.' Therefore, 'debilitatus' originally meant 'completely weakened' or 'thoroughly deprived of strength or ability.' Over time, this Latin word was adopted into English as 'debilitated,' and it came to describe a state of extreme weakness, exhaustion, or incapacitation. The etymology of 'debilitated' underscores its historical connection to the idea of complete or thorough weakening, emphasizing the profound loss of strength and vitality implied by the term.

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Further usage examples of debilitated

1. The debilitated economy struggled to recover after a major recession.
2. The debilitated building was in urgent need of repairs to make it safe for occupation.
3. The debilitated state of the environment called for immediate conservation efforts.
4. The debilitated ship limped into the harbor, battered by a violent storm.
5. The debilitated mental health of the individual required ongoing therapy and support.
6. After the marathon, I felt utterly debilitated and couldn't move.
7. The flu left her debilitated, unable to get out of bed for days.
8. His debilitated condition required weeks of physical therapy.
9. The hiker became debilitated from the strenuous mountain climb.
10. The disease debilitated his immune system, making him vulnerable.
11. The elderly woman's frailty debilitated her ability to care for herself.
12. A severe bout of food poisoning debilitated the entire family.
13. The car accident left him debilitated with multiple injuries.
14. Prolonged stress can debilitate both mental and physical health.
15. The athlete's injury debilitated his chances of competing.
16. The economic crisis debilitated small businesses across the country.
17. Chronic pain debilitated her quality of life.
18. The long journey across the desert debilitated their strength.
19. The illness debilitated his energy, making work impossible.
20. The relentless heat debilitated the hikers on their trek.
21. His addiction to drugs debilitated his physical and mental health.
22. The emotional trauma debilitated her ability to trust others.
23. The long hours at work debilitated her work-life balance.
24. The lack of sleep debilitated his cognitive functioning.
25. The loss of a loved one left her emotionally debilitated.