To feel numb means to lose physical sensation in part of your body, or to feel emotionally disconnected and unable to react normally.

When your foot falls asleep from sitting cross-legged too long, it goes numb. You can touch it, but you can't feel it. The same thing happens when a dentist gives you Novocain before filling a cavity: your jaw becomes numb so you won't feel pain. Cold weather can make your fingers numb, which is why you might struggle to tie your shoes after playing in the snow without gloves.

The word also describes an emotional state. After hearing shocking news, someone might feel numb, as if their feelings have temporarily shut down. A person might feel emotionally numb after experiencing something overwhelming, unable to feel happy or sad or anything at all. It's like their emotions have fallen asleep the way a foot does.

When something numbs you, it causes this loss of feeling. Sadness can numb your ability to enjoy things you normally love. Doing the same boring task for hours can numb your mind, making it hard to think clearly. The numbing cold of winter means cold so intense that it makes your skin lose sensation.