benumbed
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /bɪˈnʌmd/
KK: /bɪˈnʌmd/
adjective
Definition
Not feeling anything; having lost the ability to sense or react to things, often due to cold or emotional shock.
Example
After the accident, he felt benumbed and unable to respond to anyone around him.
Conversation
Have you ever felt so tired that everything seems benumbed?
Yeah, I know what you mean. It’s like nothing can excite you anymore.
Exactly! I felt that way during finals last year.
It’s tough, but taking breaks really helps to recharge.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
numb
insensate
apathetic
Antonyms
sensitive
responsive
alert
verb
Definition
To make someone or something unable to feel or move; to numb.
Example
The cold weather benumbed my fingers, making it hard to hold the pen.
Tense Forms
Past: benumbed
Past Participle: benumbed
Conversation
I felt so benumbed after that long hike yesterday.
I know what you mean; my legs were sore for days!
It was worth it though, the view was amazing.
Root Explanation
Benumbed → It is formed from "be-" (meaning to cause to be) and "numb" (from Old English "numb", meaning lacking sensation). The word "benumbed" means to be caused to lack sensation or feeling.
Memory Tip
Think of being 'caused to be' ('be-') 'lacking sensation' ('numb') — that's why benumbed means to feel numb.
Visually Confused Words
unbenumbed