Numb

Numb describes a loss or reduction of the ability to feel, perceive, or react, especially to physical sensations like pain or temperature. It can be a temporary state, often caused by cold, injury, or pressure, or a more enduring condition resulting from nerve damage or emotional distress. Beyond the purely physical, 'numb' can also describe a lack of emotional responsiveness, a feeling of detachment, or a state of being unresponsive to external stimuli. The feeling can vary in intensity from a slight tingling to complete insensitivity and may include accompanying feelings such as tingling or heaviness in the affected area.

Numb meaning with examples

• After sitting on my foot for an hour, it went completely numb. I couldn't feel the ground when I stood up, and it took several minutes for the feeling to return, accompanied by a familiar pins-and-needles sensation. The lack of sensation worried me at first, but it was just the pressure cutting off circulation. Thankfully the feeling returned.
• The harsh winter wind left my fingers numb with cold. I struggled to unbutton my coat as I felt the biting air on my face. My nose was also numb. We were too far from the car to feel safe, but a warm fire eventually helped revive feeling to my hands and brought some warmth back into my face and nose.
• The news of her betrayal left him emotionally numb. He felt detached and unable to express any grief or anger. The shock of her actions had effectively shut down his emotional processing. It was like the pain of the situation was being blocked by this numb state, he had no reaction to process.
• She was emotionally numb after the accident. The fear of the event lingered, but the shock made her feel disconnected from everything. The therapists tried to draw out her emotions but failed to make any connection. Despite the situation being resolved, she wasn't reacting, and the medical team was concerned about her condition.