(ˈ)i(m), ə+ transitive verb
Usage: see -ize
Etymology: French immobiliser, from immobile + -iser -ize
: to make immobile : fix in place or position : render incapable of movement: as
a. : to interfere with or prevent freedom of movement or effective use of (as military forces or equipment)
our planes were immobilized by bad weather
the enemy was immobilized by lack of transport
b. : to fix (as a body part) so as to reduce or eliminate motion usually by means of a cast or splint, by strapping, or by strict bed rest
immobilizing a fractured bone by a cast and continuous traction
immobilize an injury
the patient was immobilized for three months
c.
(1) : to withhold (specie) from circulation to serve as security for other money
(2) : to convert (circulating capital) into fixed capital