WorldAugust 15, 2026

palsy

PAWL-zee

Definition

A condition characterized by paralysis, typically accompanied by tremors or loss of muscular control.

Etymology

Derived from the Old French 'palasie,' which itself comes from the Greek 'paralysis.' The word was eventually shortened in Middle English to 'palsy' and came to denote various forms of motor-control impairment.

In the news

The article uses 'cerebral palsy' as an example of a life-threatening disability, noting that people with such conditions are particularly vulnerable to the risks posed by the state's new assisted suicide law.

Illinois’ Assisted Suicide Law Is, Yes, Literally Deadly

Read the full article ↗

Patheos

Related words

boda

A motorcycle taxi common in East Africa, typically used to carry passengers or goods for…

World

disbursing

The act of paying out money from a fund or treasury to cover specific expenses.

World

dispositive

Relating to or bringing about the settlement of a matter; having the power to decide or…

World

garnishment

A legal proceeding in which a debtor's property, such as wages or bank account funds, is…

World

interdicted

To have been legally restrained, prohibited, or stopped by a court order.

World

maxim

A short, pithy statement expressing a general truth, rule of conduct, or a guiding…

World

Learn a word like this every day

Meet one new word every morning.

Newspoken pulls one carefully chosen word from the day’s news — with a clear definition, context, and light review that makes it stick. Get it on your phone.