1. To temporarily or permanently lose the ability to move or feel in part or all of the body. This is the most common meaning and refers to a physical condition. It can be caused by injury, disease, or stroke.
2. To shock or overwhelm someone so much that they are unable to think or act. This meaning is more figurative and refers to a mental or emotional state. For example, fear can paralyze someone, making them unable to act.
Here are some examples:
* Physical: "The accident left him paralyzed from the waist down."
* Figurative: "The news of her death paralyzed her with grief."
It's important to note that the context of the sentence will determine which meaning of "paralyze" is being used.