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

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

Lynn said he had no idea why USC’s front looked so flustered from the start against Illinois, while linebacker Eric Gentry said the situation was “the worst of the worst that we could have played.”

Read more on Los Angeles Times

Bethell spent just four deliveries in the nineties but at no stage looked flustered.

Read more on BBC

Looking flustered and frustrated throughout the tournament, her unease was evident from the start against Osaka.

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Related Words

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