Meaning & use

immobilize

verb·Everyday

Last updated

To prevent someone or something from moving or functioning normally.

See it in a sentence

The cast was used to immobilize her broken arm while it healed.

The security system is designed to immobilize the car's engine if it detects theft.

A note on using this word

Immobilize is common in medical contexts, such as restricting an injured limb, as well as mechanical and security contexts, such as disabling a vehicle.

Words with a similar meaning

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Words with an opposite meaning

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