transfix

[ trans-fiks ]

verb (used with object)

, trans·fixed or trans·fixt, trans·fix·ing.

1. to make or hold motionless with amazement, awe, terror, etc.

   Synonyms: enthrall, captivate, engross, spellbind, fascinate

2. to pierce through with or as if with a pointed weapon; impale.
3. to hold or fasten with or on something that pierces.

transfix

/ trænsˈfɪks; trænsˈfɪkʃən /

verb

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

Derived Forms

• transfixion, noun

Other Words From

• trans·fix·ion [trans-, fik, -sh, uh, n], noun
• untrans·fixed adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of transfix¹

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

Word History and Origins

Origin of transfix¹

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

Example Sentences

Friday, however, at least gives the world's number-one side the chance to regain the upper hand in a rivalry that has transfixed the rugby world in recent years.

From BBC

Vampires might not the hero you typically root for, but they have transfixed us for centuries.

From BBC

As a young aspiring ballerina, I was transfixed by ribbons.

From Los Angeles Times

He remained transfixed by the challenge of emotional expression, which he called a deep human need.

From Los Angeles Times

What would “Ripley” be without its transfixing style, from the palpable isolation of a squalid New York apartment to the shadowy charms of ancient Italian streets?

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• captivate
• enchant
• engross
• fascinate
• hypnotize
• mesmerize
• petrify
• rivet
• stun