desensitization

American  

[dee-sen-si-tuh-zey-shuhn] / diˌsɛn sɪ təˈzeɪ ʃən /

noun

1. the act or process of desensitizing.

2. Physiology, Medicine/Medical. the elimination or reduction of natural or acquired reactivity or sensitivity to an external stimulus, as an allergen.

3. Psychiatry. a behavior modification technique, used especially in treating phobias, in which panic or other undesirable emotional response to a given stimulus is reduced or extinguished, especially by repeated exposure to that stimulus.

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Etymology

Origin of desensitization

First recorded in 1920–25; desensitize + -ation

Example Sentences

Short selling has become more challenging due to a buoyant stock market, increased litigation risk, and investor desensitization to risk.

From Barron's • Oct. 8, 2025

Now, with Hunnam — another blatantly attractive lead actor — set to helm a performance about Gein, we can only assume that a similar pattern of social media desensitization will ensue.

From Salon • Sep. 17, 2024

The “Therapy Dog Team” has been on duty since late February following months of preparation and intensive training, learning desensitization to distracting stimuli, like sounds and people.

From Seattle Times • Apr. 8, 2024

A newer method, eye movement desensitization and reprocessing, is rapidly growing in popularity.

From New York Times • Aug. 23, 2023

“I shall devise a squirrel desensitization program,” she thought.

From "The Incorrigible Children of Ashton Place: Book I: The Mysterious Howling" by Maryrose Wood