Definition

To make someone confused or unclear about something.

Example

The complicated instructions bemuddled the students during the exam.

Tense Forms

Conversation

I was reading that article, but it really started to bemuddle me.

I know what you mean; some of those topics can be really confusing.

Exactly! I felt like I was going in circles trying to understand it.

Maybe we should find a simpler explanation together.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Bemuddle → It is formed from the prefix "be-" (meaning to cause to be) and the root "muddle" (from Middle English *moddlen*, meaning to mix or confuse). The word "bemuddle" means to cause someone to be confused or mixed up.

Memory Tip

Think of being 'caused to be' confused — 'be-' means to cause, and 'muddle' means to mix or confuse.

Visually Confused Words