Transfixed

Part of speech: adjective

Definitions

1. Captivated to the extent that one remains immobile, unable to react or express emotions, as if held in an unyielding state of concentration or awe
2. Completely absorbed to the degree that movement is halted, resulting from overwhelming wonder or deep interest, as if stuck in time
3. Unable to move or respond due to intense focus or amazement

Etymology: Its original meaning was physical. The Latin "transfixus," the past participle of "transfigere," meant pierced through, as when a spear or arrow passes clean through a body. The verb is built from "trans-," meaning across or through, and "figere," to fasten or thrust in, the same root that gives English "fix" and "affix." The mental sense grew from that image. Someone struck by a sudden sight was figuratively pinned in place, held as surely as if skewered and unable to move. English kept both senses in use, so the adjective can describe a body literally run through or a bystander spellbound by a view.

Synonyms: spellbound, fascinated, enthralled, immobilized

Antonyms: distracted, released, freed