debilitating
Upper-Intermediate (B2)
IPA: /dɪˈbɪlɪˌteɪtɪŋ/
KK: /dɪˈbɪlɪˌteɪtɪŋ/
adjective
Definition
Causing a reduction in strength or energy, making someone or something weak or ineffective.
Example
The illness had a debilitating effect on her ability to work.
Conversation
I’ve been feeling really tired lately; it’s so debilitating to my energy levels.
I totally understand. Sometimes stress can really drain you.
Yeah, I didn’t realize how much it could be so debilitating until now.
You should take some time to relax and recharge.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
weakening
crippling
enfeebling
Antonyms
strengthening
invigorating
energizing
verb
Definition
To make someone or something weak or unable to function properly.
Example
The illness was debilitating, leaving her unable to work for months.
Tense Forms
Past: debilitated
Past Participle: debilitated
Conversation
I've been feeling really tired lately, like something is debilitating my energy.
That sounds rough. Have you been getting enough sleep?
Not really, I’ve been staying up late for work.
Root Explanation
Debilitating → It is formed from "de-" (meaning down or away) and "habilitare" (meaning to make able or to enable). The word "debilitating" refers to the act of making someone or something less able or weaker.
Memory Tip
Think of 'making less able' — 'de-' means down or away, and 'habilitare' means to enable. This helps you remember that debilitating means causing weakness.
Visually Confused Words
undebilitating
debating