transfix

verb

trans·​fix tran(t)s-ˈfiks How to pronounce transfix (audio)
transfixed; transfixing; transfixes

transitive verb

1
: to hold motionless by or as if by piercing
he stood transfixed by her gaze
2
: to pierce through with or as if with a pointed weapon : impale
transfixion noun

Examples of transfix in a Sentence

transfixed the inanimate butterfly specimens to the collection board
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Her murder dominated headlines and transfixed the public, but for decades has remained unsolved. Marlene Lenthang, NBC News, 29 Jan. 2025 Intertwined with the Ochi noises is David Longstreth’s transfixing score, which rings so brightly ethereal as if truly comprised from sounds captured in the forest. Carlos Aguilar, Variety, 27 Jan. 2025 Led by a performance of transfixing grace and subtlety from Ben Whishaw in the title role, the diaristic film spins compacted time into something free-flowing, expansive, illuminating and emotionally resonant, all of it achieved with elegant restraint. David Rooney, The Hollywood Reporter, 27 Jan. 2025 In , Meadow seems transfixed by the popular Australian cartoon, and isn't barking either. Alice Gibbs, Newsweek, 23 Jan. 2025 See all Example Sentences for transfix 

Word History

Etymology

Latin transfixus, past participle of transfigere, from trans- + figere to fasten, pierce — more at fix

First Known Use

1590, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Time Traveler
The first known use of transfix was in 1590

Dictionary Entries Near transfix

Cite this Entry

“Transfix.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/transfix. Accessed 6 Feb. 2025.

Kids Definition

transfix

verb
trans·​fix tran(t)s-ˈfiks How to pronounce transfix (audio)
1
: to pierce through with or as if with a pointed weapon
2
: to hold motionless by or as if by piercing
stood transfixed by her gaze

More from Merriam-Webster on transfix

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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