Anesthetize

usgb/əˈnɛs.θə.taɪz/
verb

To give a person or animal a drug that makes them unable to feel pain or conscious.

Surgeons often anesthetize patients before performing operations.
Visual representation of "anesthetize" - To give a person or animal a drug that makes them unable to feel pain or conscious.

Often appears as...

  • general anesthesia
  • local anesthesia

Usage tips

Neutral

general anesthesia, local anesthesia, anesthetize for surgery

Definition 1 of 2
Visual representation of "anesthetize"
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Medical Context

'Anesthetize' is predominantly used in medical situations like surgery.

Illustration for Medical Context
Doctors anesthetize patients before procedures.
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Sensitivity

While it has a clear medical meaning, be careful using it in emotional contexts to avoid confusion.

Illustration for Sensitivity
Not everyone may understand 'anesthetize' as ‘numb’ in a metaphorical sense.
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Formality

This word is primarily used in formal settings; avoid using it in casual conversation.

Illustration for Formality
Consider using 'put to sleep' in an informal context.
Visual representation of the word "Anesthetize"

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