benumb

verb

Save Word

be·numb | \ bi-ˈnəm

, bē- \

benumbed; benumbing; benumbs

Definition of benumb

transitive verb

1 : to make inactive : deaden

2 : to make numb especially by cold

Synonyms & Antonyms Example Sentences Learn More About benumb

Synonyms & Antonyms for benumb

Synonyms

Antonyms

sharpen,
whet

Examples of benumb in a Sentence

a succession of personal tragedies had benumbed him to all grief

Recent Examples on the Web What’s destructive, and eventually benumbing, is the kitchen-sink clutter of fantasy, reality, wish-fulfillment and glib enchantment. — Joe Morgenstern, WSJ, 24 Jan. 2019 But her core insight into how even mediocrities can be institutionally benumbed and conscripted into heinous projects remains fertile. — George Prochnik, New York Times, 12 Apr. 2018

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'benumb.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.