English Lexicon

Numbing

/ˈnʌm.ɪŋ/
adjectiveverbCEFR B2 (Upper)Top #1500 frequency
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Comprehensive Definitions & Senses

2 senses
As adjective
  1. 1

    Causing a loss of physical sensation or emotional responsiveness.

    "The cold water had a numbing effect on her skin."
As verb
  1. 1

    Present participle of 'numb', meaning to make numb or to lose feeling.

    "The medication is numbing the pain effectively."

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Antonyms & Contrasting Words (1)

Linguistic Origin & Historical Etymology

The word 'numbing' originates from the Old English 'numen', meaning 'to take away feeling or sensation'. It evolved through Middle English as 'nummen', reflecting a gradual shift in meaning towards the loss of physical sensation or emotional responsiveness.

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