benumb

American  

[bih-nuhm] / bɪˈnʌm /

verb (used with object)

1. to make numb; deprive of sensation.

   benumbed by cold.

2. to render inactive; deaden or stupefy.

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benumb British  

/ bɪˈnʌm /

verb

1. to make numb or powerless; deaden physical feeling in, as by cold

2. (usually passive) to make inactive; stupefy (the mind, senses, will, etc)

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Other Word Forms

• benumbedness noun
• benumbingly adverb
• benumbment noun
• unbenumbed adjective

Etymology

Origin of benumb

1350–1400; back formation from Middle English benomen, past participle of benimen to take away, Old English beniman; cognate with Dutch benemen, German benehmen, Gothic biniman. See be-, nimble, numb

Example Sentences

Invention is kept alive, and the mind is not suffered to fall into that drowsy stupidity, which, in a civilized society, seems to benumb the understanding of the people….

From Forbes • Aug. 26, 2014

And now she knew that the children were safe, the unexpectedness of it, the amazement of the whole thing, seemed almost to benumb her senses.

From The Island House A Tale for the Young Folks by Holmes, F. M. (Frederic Morell)

The effect of this announcement was to benumb his faculties.

From Great African Travellers From Mungo Park to Livingstone and Stanley by Kingston, William Henry Giles

All this Todros heard in a dim and vague way; but it was enough, to benumb his heart, full of petrified faith and pride.

From An Obscure Apostle A Dramatic Story by Soissons, C. S. de

The intense cold, that soon began to benumb the senses of Sandie, seemed to have no deterrent effect on his efforts.

From Wild Adventures round the Pole The Cruise of the "Snowbird" Crew in the "Arrandoon" by Stables, Gordon