Meaning & Definition of word "Numbness"

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    Numbness

    /ˈnʌm.nəs/

    noun:

    • 1. a loss of sensation or feeling in a part of the body.
      • Example: After sitting in the same position for too long, I experienced numbness in my legs.
    • 2. a state of physical or emotional insensitivity or unresponsiveness.
      • Example: The numbness I felt after hearing the bad news made it hard to process my emotions.
    • 3. a condition resulting from nerve damage or compression.
      • Example: The doctor diagnosed her with carpal tunnel syndrome, explaining that it often causes numbness in the fingers.
    • 4. a feeling of indifference or lack of interest.
      • Example: He described a numbness towards life that had settled in after years of monotony.

    Etymology

    Middle English 'nummen', from Old English 'numian' meaning to take or capture.

    Common Phrases and Expressions

    numb to the world:

    emotionally disconnected or indifferent.

    numb with fear:

    experiencing a complete lack of feeling due to fear.

    Related Words

    numb:

    To make or become insensitive.

    insensitive:

    Lacking sensitivity; indifferent or unresponsive.

    Slang Meanings of numbness

    Meaning: Feeling out of it or detached from reality.

    Example Sentence: I was so overwhelmed that I just felt numb.

    Meaning: Being under the influence of drugs or alcohol.

    Example Sentence: After that party, I was completely numb.