Word Explorer

Numb

/nʌm/

To cause to become numb (physically or emotionally).

📖 Definitions of "Numb"

verb

1
To cause to become numb (physically or emotionally).
"The dentist gave me novocaine to numb my tooth before drilling, thank goodness."
2
To cause (a feeling) to be less intense.
"He turned to alcohol to numb his pain."
3
To cause (the mind, faculties, etc.) to be less acute.
4
To become numb (especially physically).

adjective

1
Physically unable to feel, not having the power of sensation.
"fingers numb with cold"
2
Emotionally unable to feel or respond in a normal way.
"numb with shock; numb with boredom"
3
Causing numbness.

8 synonyms found via WordNet and Google Books.

Word	Definition
dullverb	Boring; not exciting or interesting.
bluntnoun	Having a thick edge or point; not sharp.
deadnoun	(usually not comparable) No longer living; deceased. (Also used as a noun.)
benumbed	Lacking sensation; numb.
insensible	Incapable or deprived of physical sensation.
benumbverb	(transitive) To make numb, as by cold or anesthetic.
petrified	Extremely afraid.
asleep	In a state of sleep; also, broadly, resting.

Found via reverse dictionary — words that share a conceptual meaning.

Word	Definition
dullverb	Boring; not exciting or interesting.
insensitive	Expressing or feeling little or no concern, care, compassion, or consideration for the feelings, emotions, sentiments, or concerns of other people; inconsiderate or incompassionate.
insensible	Incapable or deprived of physical sensation.
bluntnoun	Having a thick edge or point; not sharp.
benumbed	Lacking sensation; numb.
benumbverb	(transitive) To make numb, as by cold or anesthetic.
afraid	Impressed with fear or apprehension; in fear.
deadnoun	(usually not comparable) No longer living; deceased. (Also used as a noun.)
petrified	Extremely afraid.
asleep	In a state of sleep; also, broadly, resting.
callousnoun	(figurative) Emotionally hardened; unfeeling and indifferent to the suffering/feelings of others.
cold-hearted	Without sympathy, feeling or compassion; callous or heartless.
unfeeling	Without emotion or sympathy.
uncaringnoun	Characterized by a lack of care; not caring.
oblivious	(usually with to or of) Lacking awareness; unmindful; unaware, unconscious of.
unmoved	Not affected emotionally, or not showing emotion.
indifferentnoun	Ambivalent; unconcerned; uninterested, apathetic.
unresponsive	Not responsive; unreactive.
unsympathetic	Not sympathetic; ill-disposed
heartless	Without feeling, emotion, or concern for others; uncaring; cruel.