(linguistics) A discontinuous affix, which occurs at more than one position in a word, typical of Semitic languages.
Verb
(transitive) To render motionless, by arousing terror, amazement or awe.
1963, Margery Allingham, The China Governess Chapter Foreword, 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.
(transitive) To pierce with a sharp pointed weapon.
1919, William Somerset Maugham, ,There was a little stream that ran not far away, in which he bathed, and down this on occasion would come a shoal of fish. Then the natives would assemble with spears, and with much shouting would transfix the great startled things as they hurried down to the sea.
