transfix

Definition

To render motionless, by arousing terror, amazement or awe.

Etymology

From Middle French transfixer, from Old French transfixer, from Latin transfigō (“to pierce through”), from trans- (“through”) + figō (“to pierce”).

Example Sentences

• "He stood transfixed before the unaccustomed view of London at night time, a vast panorama which reminded him […] of some wood engravings far off and magical, in a printshop in his childhood. They dated from the previous century and were coarsely printed on tinted paper, with tinsel outlining the design."
• "But we may as well accept her story as true, for it is likely she would have been transfixed by the narcissism of the weight lifters."
• "The spear transfixed my arm that was uplifted In swift expostulation, and the blood Gushed round its point: I smiled, […]"

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