痺れ

• Reading: しびれ
• Romaji: shibire
• Kanji breakdown: 痺 (hi/shi) — numbness, paralysis
• Pronunciation: /ɕi.bi.ɾe/

Meaning

Numbness; pins and needles. The tingling or loss of sensation in a limb, typically from poor circulation or sustained pressure.

A noun derived from the verb 痺れる (shibireru, to go numb). Commonly describes the physical sensation of a limb falling asleep after sitting in seiza or staying in one position too long. Also used figuratively to describe being captivated or thrilled, as in 痺れるほどかっこいい (so cool it gives you chills).

Examples

1. 正座を長時間していたら足に痺れが出た。 My foot went numb after sitting in seiza for a long time.
2. この寒さで手の痺れがなかなか取れない。 My hands went numb from the cold and just won't warm up.
3. 腕の痺れが続くなら早めに病院へ行ったほうがいい。 If the numbness in your arm keeps up, you should see a doctor sooner rather than later.

Usage Guide

Context: health, daily life, medical

Tone: neutral

Origin & History

From the native Japanese verb 痺れる. The kanji 痺 combines 疒 (illness radical) with 卑 (low), suggesting a debilitating sensation in the body.

Cultural Context

Era: Ancient

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal