Causing loss of feeling or sensation; making someone unable to feel or think clearly.
From 'benumb' (be- + numb), combining the Old English prefix 'be-' meaning 'to make' with 'numb' from Middle Dutch 'nom' meaning 'dull or torpid.' The -ing suffix creates the present participle form.
The word 'benumbing' perfectly captures what happens when you sit too long in the cold—your limbs stop responding to your brain's commands. This ancient idea of numbness has fascinated people for centuries, which is why we have such vivid words to describe it.
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