fluster

American  

[fluhs-ter] / ˈflʌs tər /

verb (used with object)

1. to put into a state of agitated confusion.

   His constant criticism flustered me.

   Synonyms:

   disturb, disconcert, bewilder, upset

2. to excite and confuse with drink.

---

verb (used without object)

1. to become agitatedly confused.

noun

1. nervous excitement or confusion.

   Synonyms:

   distraction, bewilderment, upset, agitation, turmoil

fluster British  

/ ˈflʌstə /

verb

1. to make or become confused, nervous, or upset

---

noun

1. a state of confusion or agitation

Etymology

Origin of fluster

First recorded in 1375–1425; late Middle English flostren; bluster, Old Norse flaustra “to hurry”

Example Sentences

After she says she is, in a flustered tone, he sarcastically asks: “You don’t sound sure. Want to make a phone call?”

From The Wall Street Journal

“Russell and I . . . Yes, we were . . . dating,” I stammered, flustered again at the wrong-sounding word.

From Literature

The fluster that I felt back in the station has developed into irritation here on the train, now that I can’t so easily walk away.

From Literature

I’m all flustered, thinking of his dad, so I blurt out the first thing I can think of.

From Literature

Calvin entered the upstairs bedroom and encountered five flustered females.

From Literature

Related Words

• agitate
• bewilder
• confound
• confuse
• discombobulate
• distract
• muddle
• mystify
• nonplus
• perplex
• unhinge