n. pl. pal·sies 1. Complete or partial muscle paralysis, often accompanied by loss of sensation and uncontrollable body movements or tremors. 2. a. A weakening or debilitating influence. b. An enfeebled condition or debilitated state thought to result from such an influence. 3. A fit of strong emotion marked by the inability to act: "Flaherty dithered in a little palsy of indignation" (Anthony Burgess). tr.v. pal·sied, pal·sy·ing, pal·sies 1. a. To paralyze. b. To deprive of strength. 2. To make helpless, as with fear. [Middle English palsie, alteration of Old French paralisie, alteration of Latin paralysis; see PARALYSIS.] |
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