To cause to become numb (physically or emotionally).
The dentist gave me novocaine to numb my tooth before drilling, thank goodness.
To cause (a feeling) to be less intense.
He turned to alcohol to numb his pain.
To cause (the mind, faculties, etc.) to be less acute.
To become numb (especially physically).
Physically unable to feel, not having the power of sensation.
fingers numb with cold
Emotionally unable to feel or respond in a normal way.
numb with shock; numb with boredom
Causing numbness.