fluster

[fluhs-ter]

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

/ ˈflʌstə /

verb

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

noun

1. a state of confusion or agitation

Word History and Origins

Origin of fluster¹

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

Word History and Origins

Origin of fluster¹

C15: probably of Scandinavian origin; compare Icelandic flaustr to hurry, flaustra to bustle

Example Sentences

Ama, however, doesn’t seem discouraged or flustered by the news of her own death.

Read more on Literature

“But—but...that is nonsense! Poppycock! There are no miserable girls at Swanburne,” Penelope said, now quite flustered.

Read more on Literature

“Simon? I mean, Mr. Harley-Dickinson, of course. Forgive me, I am still a bit flustered from the fall. . . .”

Read more on Literature

Maybe knowing so many people is behind his sweating, flustering, and giggling.

Read more on BBC

I’d have liked to watch her explain where she thinks she’s gone, however adorably flustered the answer.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

Related Words

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