Definition

To make someone or something less intelligent or less sharp in understanding.

Example

The constant distractions seemed to hebetate his ability to focus on the task at hand.

Tense Forms

Conversation

I feel like my new job might hebetate my creativity.

Really? How so?

Well, the tasks seem pretty repetitive and dull.

That makes sense; sometimes a routine can really dull your edge.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Hebetate is formed from "hebes" (from Latin "hebes", meaning dull or blunt) and "-ate" (a suffix used to form verbs). The word "hebetate" means to make dull or to blunt something.

Memory Tip

Think of 'hebes' meaning dull — so when something is hebetated, it becomes dull or less sharp.

Visually Confused Words