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Definition of incapacitate

incapacitate

/ˌɪnkəˈpæsɪteɪt/
in · ca · pac · i · tate
Adjective:incapacitated
•
Past Simple:incapacitated
•
Past Participle:incapacitated
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Present Participle:incapacitating
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incapacitate Lexical Profile

incapacitate Game Scores & Validity

• verb

1

To prevent from functioning in a normal way; to deprive of strength, ability, or power.

Example

"A severe migraine can completely incapacitate a person for several days."

2

To render legally ineligible or unqualified (especially in law).

Example

"A serious conflict of interest may incapacitate a judge from presiding over the case."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for incapacitate
Antonyms
View all antonyms for incapacitate

• Rhymes for incapacitate

• Nearby Words

incapability
incapable
incapably
incapacitate
incapacitated
incapacitation
incapacity

Word Origin & Etymology

Coined in the mid-17th century from 'incapacity' plus the verbal suffix '-ate', ultimately tracing back to the Latin 'incapacitas', from 'in-' (not) and 'capax' (able to hold much), derived from 'capere' (to take or hold).

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Incapacitate. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/incapacitate
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