befuddle

[bih-fuhd-l]

verb (used with object)

befuddled, befuddling 

1. to confuse, as with glib statements or arguments.

   politicians befuddling the public with campaign promises.

   Synonyms: muddle, daze, baffle, bewilder, perplex

2. to make stupidly drunk.

befuddle

/ bɪˈfʌdəl /

verb

1. to confuse, muddle, or perplex

2. to make stupid with drink

Other Word Forms

• befuddlement noun
• befuddler noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of befuddle¹

First recorded in 1885–90; be- + fuddle

Example Sentences

The couple said they were befuddled at the interaction but figured they’d done enough to get their money; the receptionist told them to come back in a few hours to collect.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

He had touchdown runs of 15 and five yards around the left side that befuddled a Chargers defense that had played so well to this point.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

Alcaraz told befuddled reporters after the match that he “had to do something” about his hair and beard, so he flew in his personal barber.

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The defeated opposition, the Democratic Party, seemed distinctly befuddled and weak.

Read more on Salon

It hasn’t been just Hong who has found himself befuddled by his disappearing and reappearing plane.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• baffle 
• bewilder 
• daze 
• disorient 
• distract 
• dumbfound 
• fluster 
• intoxicate 
• muddle 
• puzzle 
• stupefy