numb
Numb (adj) means Unable to feel physical sensation, especially because of cold or pressure on a nerve. Example: “Her fingers went numb in the freezing wind.”
How to use numb
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishNot able to feel anything, whether that's in your body (like a foot that's fallen asleep) or emotionally.
The "b" is silent — it rhymes with "gum", not with words that pronounce a final b.
Trace the full origin ↓Word forms
number comparative, numbed past tense, numbs singular, numbest superlative
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
Her fingers went _____ in the freezing wind.
Etymology
From the old past form of the verb "nim" ("to take" or "to seize"); the silent "b" was added later and was never actually pronounced.
Related words
Rhymes for numb
See all rhymes for numb →Frequently asked questions
What does “numb” mean?
The word “numb” means unable to feel physical sensation, especially because of cold or pressure on a nerve. In plain terms, not able to feel anything, whether that's in your body (like a foot that's fallen asleep) or emotionally.
How do you pronounce “numb”?
“Numb” is pronounced nuhm (/nʌm/ in IPA).
How do you use “numb” in a sentence?
Here is “numb” used in a sentence: “Her fingers went numb in the freezing wind.”
What is the opposite of “numb”?
The opposite of “numb” — its antonyms — are sensible and sensitive.
What part of speech is “numb”?
Depending on how it is used, “numb” can be an adjective and a verb.
Is “numb” a common word?
“Numb” is an uncommon word in modern English, usually learned at around the C1 level.
How many meanings does “numb” have?
“Numb” has 3 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: unable to feel physical sensation, especially because of cold or pressure on a nerve.
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