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Befuddled - Meaning, Definition & English Examples

Befuddled means confused or unable to think clearly, often due to surprise, complexity, or too much information. It describes a state of mental disorientation or puzzlement.

befuddled

/bɪˈfʌdəld/ /bɪˈfʌdəld/

Definition:

Confused or perplexed, unable to think clearly.

Synonyms:

bewildered, confused, disoriented, muddled

Part of Speech:

adjective

Antonyms:

clear-headed, lucid

Common Collocations:

befuddled expression, completely befuddled, slightly befuddled

Derivatives:

befuddlement, befuddling

Usage Tips:

Use "befuddled" to describe someone visibly confused or struggling to understand something.

Common Phrases:

befuddled look, utterly befuddled, left me befuddled

Etymology:

Derived from "be-" (intensive) + "fuddle" (to confuse), first used in the 17th century.

Examples:

  • 1. The instructions left him utterly befuddled.
  • 2. She gave a befuddled shrug when asked the question.
  • 3. The complex math problem had the students completely befuddled.
  • 4. He looked around with a befuddled expression after waking up late.

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