obtusion

Obtusion refers to the process of making something blunt, dull, or less sharp. This can apply to physical objects, such as a knife or a tool, where the cutting edge has been worn down or damaged, reducing its effectiveness. In a more abstract sense, obtusion can describe a dulling of the senses, emotions, or intellect. For example, a person might experience obtusion of feeling after a traumatic event, becoming emotionally numb. Similarly, prolonged exposure to monotonous stimuli can lead to a cognitive obtusion, where the mind becomes less responsive and alert. The term is also used in geometry to describe an angle that is greater than 90 degrees and less than 180 degrees, known as an obtuse angle. In metallurgy, an obtused edge on a metal component might indicate wear or improper handling. The opposite of obtusion is sharpening or refinement.