discomfit

[ dis-kuhm-fit ]

verb (used with object)

1. to confuse and deject; disconcert:

   to be discomfited by a question.

   Synonyms: disturb, embarrass, discompose

2. to frustrate the plans of; thwart; foil.
3. Archaic. to defeat utterly; rout:

   The army was discomfited in every battle.

noun

1. Archaic. rout; defeat.

discomfit

/ dɪsˈkʌmfɪt /

verb

1. to make uneasy, confused, or embarrassed
2. to frustrate the plans or purpose of
3. archaic.
   to defeat in battle

Derived Forms

• disˈcomfiter, noun
• disˈcomfiture, noun

Other Words From

• dis·comfit·er noun
• undis·comfit·ed adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of discomfit¹

1175–1225; Middle English < Anglo-French descunfit, Old French desconfit, past participle of desconfire, equivalent to des- dis- ¹ + confire to make, accomplish < Latin conficere; confect

Word History and Origins

Origin of discomfit¹

C14: from Old French desconfire to destroy, from des- (indicating reversal) + confire to make, from Latin conficere to produce; see confect

Example Sentences

But it cannot be said that anything much happened to discomfit the publishing houses of little faith.

From Project Gutenberg

It contained a small table and a stove, the latter of diminutive size, but smoky enough to discomfit a host.

From Project Gutenberg

Hereupon the proper thing is for something very harsh to break in, and discomfit all the wandering vision of earthly happiness.

From Project Gutenberg

They acknowledged that on this occasion it was less difficult to kill than to discomfit the soldiers of Chosroes.

From Project Gutenberg

The patriarch and the bishops did not seek to discomfit me by learned arguments or flimsy excuses.

From Project Gutenberg

Related Words

• demoralize
• disconcert
• perplex
• vex