debilitating
/dɪˈbɪlɪteɪtɪŋ(ɡ)/
Group 11Difficulty 2/3
Definition
- (adjective)
- Tending to weaken or impair GRE
Example in Context
The debilitating effects of the drought on agricultural output threatened to push millions into food insecurity.
Synonyms
weakeningcripplingdraining
Etymology
To reduce ability or strength.
- de- (Latin) — down from
- habilitare (Latin) — to make able
Memory Aid
💔Sounds like “debilitate”
If you DEBILITATE your own heart by eating too much candy, you might end up with a heartache and a bellyache!
Visual Association
🛌A person lying in bed, exhausted and unable to get up after an all-night candy binge.
Semantic Clusters
Synonym Groups
Frequently Asked Questions
What does “debilitating” mean on the GRE?
debilitating (adjective) means “Tending to weaken or impair”. The debilitating effects of the drought on agricultural output threatened to push millions into food insecurity.
How to remember “debilitating” for the GRE?
Mnemonic: “debilitating” sounds like “debilitate”. If you DEBILITATE your own heart by eating too much candy, you might end up with a heartache and a bellyache!
What are synonyms for “debilitating”?
Common synonyms: weakening, crippling, draining.