cripple
UK: /ˈkrɪp(ə)l/ | US: /ˈkrɪp(ə)l/
n. a person who is unable to walk or move normally due to injury or illness (now often considered offensive; "person with a disability" is preferred).
vt. to cause severe damage or impairment to something.
vt. to deprive of strength or efficiency.
The word "cripple" originates from Old English crypel, derived from the verb crēopan ("to creep, bend"), reflecting the idea of impaired movement. The suffix -el denotes an agent or one who performs an action. Historically, it described someone with physical limitations, but modern usage favors more respectful terms like "person with a disability." The verb sense evolved metaphorically to mean "to weaken or disable" something abstract (e.g., a system).
The old bridge was crippled by the storm, making it unsafe for travel.
Harsh policies could cripple the economy if not carefully implemented.
(Historical/offensive) The term "cripple" is now widely replaced by "person with a disability."
The software bug crippled the network for hours.
She refused to let the accident cripple her ambitions.