PsychologyAugust 17, 2026

desensitise

dee-SEN-suh-tyz

Definition

To make someone less sensitive to something, specifically by repeated exposure so that they no longer react strongly or emotionally to it.

Etymology

Derived from the prefix 'de-' (meaning removal or reversal) and 'sensitive,' which comes from the Latin 'sentire,' meaning to feel. It entered English to describe the clinical process of reducing emotional or physical responsiveness.

In the news

The article warns that frequent exposure to violent digital content can desensitise young people to aggression, making them less reactive to the harm caused to others.

Video games: Entertainment or trigger for violent behaviour?

Read the full article ↗

Newswav

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