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numbing

adjective

/ˈnʌm ɪŋ/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of numbing

Causing a loss or reduction in physical or emotional sensation, often resulting in a lack of feeling or a dulling effect.
"The news of the accident was numbing, leaving everyone in shock."

Detailed meaning of numbing

It signifies an action, experience, or substance that produces a numbing effect on the body or mind. When something is numbing, it may temporarily or permanently deaden the senses, making them less responsive or sensitive to stimuli. This can be a physical sensation, such as numbing cold or a numbing agent used in medical procedures. It can also refer to emotional or psychological numbness, where one feels detached, apathetic, or emotionally unresponsive. Numbing experiences or substances can have various effects, from providing temporary relief from pain to inducing a state of emotional detachment. However, prolonged or excessive numbing can have negative consequences, such as diminishing the ability to experience pleasure or suppressing genuine emotional responses.

Example sentences containing numbing

1. The numbing cold made it difficult to feel my fingers.
2. The dentist applied a numbing gel before the procedure.
3. The repetitive task had a numbing effect on my mind.
4. The medication had a numbing effect on the pain, providing relief.
5. The monotonous lecture was numbing, causing many to struggle to stay awake.
6. The numbing silence in the room made the tension palpable.

History and etymology of numbing

The adjective 'numbing' is closely tied to the verb 'numb,' which has its origins in Old English. The Old English word 'numb' meant 'devoid of physical sensation or feeling,' and it can be traced back to the Proto-Germanic term 'numbaz,' which had a similar meaning. The root of this word is thought to be related to the Indo-European base 'neu,' meaning 'to be insensitive.' 'Numbing' is formed by adding the suffix '-ing' to 'numb,' and it describes the action or effect of causing a loss or reduction in physical or emotional sensation, often resulting in a lack of feeling or a dulling effect. The etymology of 'numbing' reflects its historical association with the absence or reduction of sensation, highlighting its role in describing processes or experiences that lead to numbness or a decrease in sensitivity.

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Further usage examples of numbing

1. The tragic loss had a numbing impact on the community.
2. The surgeon injected a numbing agent into the patient's arm before the operation.
3. The constant noise from construction work had a numbing effect on my concentration.
4. The emotional trauma she experienced left her feeling numb and emotionally numbing.
5. The repetitive sound of the machine had a numbing effect, making it difficult to concentrate.
6. The numbing cold of winter froze the lake's surface solid.
7. Her numbing words left him speechless and emotionally drained.
8. The dentist used a numbing gel before the tooth extraction.
9. The numbing monotony of the daily commute was unbearable.
10. The news of the accident had a numbing effect on the family.
11. The repetitive task had a numbing impact on his creativity.
12. The numbing grief after the loss of a loved one can be overwhelming.
13. The medication had a numbing sensation, easing his pain.
14. The numbing reality of the pandemic changed life as we knew it.
15. The numbing silence in the room made everyone uncomfortable.
16. The constant noise outside was a numbing distraction.
17. The numbing sameness of the landscape stretched for miles.
18. The numbing fatigue from the long hike left them exhausted.
19. The numbing bureaucracy slowed down the approval process.
20. The numbing routine of the nursing home saddened her.
21. The numbing hours spent in traffic were frustrating.
22. The numbing fear of the unknown held her back.
23. The numbing disappointment of failure was hard to bear.
24. The numbing realization of their mistake came too late.
25. The numbing apathy of the crowd was disheartening.