transfix

[ trans-fiks ]
/ trænsˈfɪks /

verb (used with object), trans·fixed or trans·fixt, trans·fix·ing.

to make or hold motionless with amazement, awe, terror, etc.
to pierce through with or as if with a pointed weapon; impale.
to hold or fasten with or on something that pierces.

Origin of transfix

1580–90; < Latin trānsfīxus (past participle of trānsfīgere to pierce through), equivalent to trāns- trans- + fīg(ere) to pierce + -sus, variant of -tus past participle suffix

SYNONYMS FOR transfix

1 fascinate, spellbind, engross, captivate, enthrall.

OTHER WORDS FROM transfix

trans·fix·ion [trans-fik-shuhn] /trænsˈfɪk ʃən/, noun un·trans·fixed, adjective

Words nearby transfix

transferrin, transfiguration, transfigure, transfinite, transfinite number, transfix, transfixion, transfixion suture, transform, transform fault, transformation

Words related to transfixing

stun, fascinate, petrify, captivate, engross, hypnotize, enchant, mesmerize, rivet, paralyze, bewitch, spellbind, hold, root, palsy, lance, spit, spear, fix, puncture

Example sentences from the Web for transfixing

British Dictionary definitions for transfixing

transfix
/ (trænsˈfɪks) /

verb -fixes, -fixing, -fixed or -fixt (tr)

to render motionless, esp with horror or shock
to impale or fix with a sharp weapon or other device
med to cut through (a limb or other organ), as in amputation

Derived forms of transfix

transfixion (trænsˈfɪkʃən), noun

Word Origin for transfix

C16: from Latin transfīgere to pierce through, from trans- + fīgere to thrust in