crippling
UK: ˈkrɪp.lɪŋ | US: ˈkrɪp.lɪŋ
adj. causing severe damage or impairment
adj. extremely debilitating or weakening
vt. present participle of cripple: causing someone to become unable to walk or function normally
The word crippling derives from the verb cripple, which originated from Old English crypel (a person unable to walk). The root crippl evolved from Proto-Germanic krupilaz, linked to the idea of bending or contorting (reflecting physical impairment). The suffix -ing forms the present participle, turning the action into an adjective describing something that causes severe limitation or damage. The logic traces from literal physical disability to metaphorical weakening (e.g., "crippling debt").
The crippling pain left him bedridden for weeks.
The strike had a crippling effect on the economy.
She suffered a crippling injury during the marathon.
Anxiety can be crippling in high-pressure situations.
The new regulations imposed crippling costs on small businesses.