To cause someone or something to lose the ability to move or function properly, or to severely weaken or damage.
From Old English 'crypel,' related to creeping or crawling motions, Germanic in origin; originally described people with mobility difficulties but evolved to mean any severe damage or weakening.
This word has shifted meaning over time—it once was a neutral descriptor for people with disabilities, but modern usage focuses on the metaphorical sense of 'weakening' systems or abilities, reflecting how our language around disability has become more respectful.
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