obtunding

Definitions

To dull, blunt, or deaden the sensitivity or intensity of something, such as pain or consciousness.

To make less sharp, keen, or acute.

Examples

The heavy dose of medication was effective in obtunding the patient's acute pain.

The constant noise of the city had the effect of obtunding his sensitivity to the quiet beauty of the countryside.

Synonyms

dulling deadening blunting numbing muffling dampening desensitizing

Antonyms

sharpening sensitizing intensifying stimulating awakening whetting exacerbating