cripples
word · lemma: cripple
Definition
'Cripples' is the third person singular or plural form of 'cripple', meaning to severely damage or weaken someone or something so it cannot function properly. As a noun, it is an old and now offensive term for a person who cannot use their limbs normally.
Usage & Nuances
As a noun for a person, 'cripples' is now considered very offensive—use 'person with a disability' instead. As a verb, it's formal/literary, often relating to extensive harm ('disease cripples economies'). Use only as a verb in modern speech.
Example Sentences
The disease cripples many people every year.
basic
A car accident sometimes cripples its victims.
basic
Polio cripples children if they are not vaccinated.
basic
Economic collapse cripples entire regions for years.
natural
A hacker attack cripples the network, and nobody can get online.
natural
Using 'cripples' to describe people is hurtful and outdated.
natural