Debilitate
Definition 1 of 2
Pro Tip 1/3
Severity Impact
Debilitate implies a serious weakening effect, not just a slight hindrance. The invasive species has debilitated the local ecosystem.
Pro Tip 2/3
Extended Effect
Use 'debilitate' to express a long-term or progressive weakening, rather than a temporary one. Years of neglect have debilitated the infrastructure of the town.
Pro Tip 3/3
Total Incapacitation
It can imply reducing strength to the point of near incapacitation, not just lessening it. Without its leader, the movement was debilitated.