Paralysers

Part of speech: noun

Definitions

1. A substance or agent that induces a loss of movement or sensation in the body
2. An entity that causes a temporary or permanent inability to move or feel certain body parts
3. A factor that leads to a state of immobility or lack of responsiveness in an organism

Etymology: "Paralysers" is simply the plural of "paraliser," the British spelling of "paralyzer," formed by adding the agent suffix "-er" to the verb "paralyse." That verb comes from the Greek "paralysis," meaning a loosening or disabling of the limbs, built from "para-" (beside, beyond) and "lyein" (to loosen). The suffix "-er" marks a person or thing that performs the action, so a paralyser is whatever brings about that state of disablement. The word's history therefore lies in the verb, while the noun simply names the agent. Because the suffix is a regular English one that can attach to most verbs, the plural follows the ordinary pattern of adding "-s."

Synonyms: paralyzers, immobilizers