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Definitions

numb

[nuhm] / nʌm /
ADJECTIVE
deadened, insensitive
Synonyms
STRONGEST
dazed indifferent
STRONG
anesthetized benumbed callous detached frozen immobilized numbed paralyzed stupefied
WEAK
aloof apathetic asleep casual comatose dead disinterested incurious insensate insensible insentient lethargic listless phlegmatic remote senseless stuporous torpid unconcerned unconscious uncurious unfeeling uninterested
Antonyms
STRONG
compassionate sympathetic
WEAK
lively responsive sensitive
VERB
deaden
Synonyms
STRONGEST
anesthetize desensitize dull paralyze stupefy
STRONG
benumb blunt chill freeze frost immobilize obtund stun
Antonyms
STRONG
heat
WEAK
enliven

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Many people are numb or marinating in indignation and anger.

From Barron's • Apr. 15, 2026

Chris McMonagle, a friend of Amy's said he, like many in Derry feels, "numb, sadness and shock" following her death.

From BBC • Mar. 27, 2026

I felt like I was an extra in a BritBox drama and I couldn’t stop taking photos despite my numb fingers.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 25, 2026

But in 2026, everything can be dramatized until we’re numb to the truth of what we’re seeing.

From Salon • Mar. 21, 2026

Even though he was wet and numb with cold, he lovingly wiped mud and paw prints from his chrome spokes with bits of shredded Kleenex.

From "Ralph S. Mouse" by Beverly Cleary

Vocabulary lists containing numb

The Watsons Go to Birmingham

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Lesson 1

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The Circuit

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