numb
word
Definition
Unable to feel physical sensation or emotion, often because of cold, shock, or strong feelings. It can describe both your body and your emotions.
Usage & Nuances
Can describe physical loss of feeling ("my fingers are numb") or emotional dullness ("I felt numb after the news"). Common with "cold", "pain", "shock". Informal/neutral. Not used for temporary sensations that fade in seconds.
Example Sentences
She was so shocked by what happened that she felt completely numb inside.
natural
The pain was so bad that after a while my arm just felt numb.
natural
The dentist made my mouth numb before the treatment.
basic
After being outside in the snow, my hands felt numb.
basic
After the bad news, I felt numb and couldn't cry.
basic
My feet went completely numb after standing in the cold water.
natural