Desensitized: meaning, definitions and examples

Used when referring to someone who no longer reacts emotionally to something due to repeated exposure over time.

• After years of working in the emergency room, she became desensitized to the sight of injuries.
• Many people are becoming desensitized to violence in the media.

Used when someone is unable to feel physical sensations or emotions, often temporarily.

• His hands were numb from the cold.
• She felt numb after hearing the tragic news.

Used to describe someone who lacks empathy or consideration for others' feelings, often in a negative way.

• It was insensitive of him to make jokes about her weight.
• The manager's insensitive comments upset many of the employees.

Used to describe someone or something that does not react or respond to stimuli, often in medical or emergency situations.

• The patient was unresponsive when the paramedics arrived.
• Despite numerous attempts to contact him, he remained unresponsive.

Used when someone has become less sensitive or less responsive to certain stimuli or emotions due to repeated exposure. Often applies to psychological states or reactions.

• After years of working in the emergency room, the doctors became desensitized to the sight of blood.
• The violent video games made him desensitized to real-life violence.

Refers to making someone immune to a disease, usually through the administration of vaccines. It is commonly used in medical and health-related contexts.

• The government plans to immunize all children against measles.
• It's important to immunize your pets against common diseases.

Used when referring to keeping someone or something safe from harm or danger. It is a broad term applicable in various contexts, including physical safety, emotional well-being, and cybersecurity.

• Parents do their best to protect their children from harm.
• This software is designed to protect your computer from viruses.

Specifically refers to administering a vaccine to someone to prevent them from contracting a disease. This term is frequently used in discussions about public health.

• All healthcare workers are required to vaccinate themselves against the flu.
• You need to vaccinate your child before they start school.