Pronunciation: [dɪbˈɪlɪtˌe͡ɪt] (IPA) 
The word "debilitate" is spelled with a "b" and two "i"s. The IPA phonetic transcription of the word is /dəˈbɪlɪteɪt/. The "b" sound is represented by the letter "b" and the "l" sound is represented by the letter "l". The two "i"s are pronounced with a short "i" sound, represented by the symbol /ɪ/. The final "ate" is pronounced with a long "a" sound, represented by the symbol /eɪ/. "Debilitate" means to weaken or incapacitate.
Debilitate is a verb that commonly refers to the act of weakening or impairing someone or something, usually in terms of physical, mental, or emotional strength. It is typically used to describe the process or effect of making someone or something less effective, functional, or vigorous.
In the context of physical health, debilitate often implies the reduction of strength, energy, or vitality, resulting in a diminished ability to perform daily activities or tasks. It could refer to a medical condition, injury, or disease that weakens the body, making it less capable of functioning at its usual level. For example, a severe flu or chronic illness might debilitate an individual, causing them to experience fatigue, muscle weakness, or cognitive decline.
In a psychological sense, debilitate can be used to depict conditions that hinder mental functioning or well-being. This may encompass prolonged stress, anxiety, or depression that negatively impact one's ability to think, concentrate, or make rational decisions. Similarly, debilitate can describe circumstances where emotional distress or traumatic experiences weaken a person's emotional stability, leading to a loss of motivation, self-confidence, or resilience.
Overall, debilitate signifies an outcome in which someone or something experiences a significant reduction in strength, vitality, functionality, or mental well-being, which curtails their ability to perform optimally or enjoy a healthy state of being.
To enfeeble; to weaken; to impair the strength of.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "debilitate" originates from the Latin word "debilitatus", which is the past participle of the verb "debilitare". In Latin, "debilitare" is derived from the word "debilis", meaning "weak" or "feeble". Thus, "debilitare" literally means "to weaken". In English, "debilitate" retains its Latin root's meaning, referring to the act of making someone or something weak or feeble.
