Definition

To cause someone to become confused or perplexed, often due to a lot of different things happening at once.

Example

The complex instructions bewildered the students, leaving them unsure of what to do next.

Tense Forms

Conversation

I tried to follow the instructions for that new game, but they really bewilder me.

Yeah, I felt the same way! They were all over the place.

It's frustrating when guides are so confusing.

Totally! They should be clear, not bewildering.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Bewilder is formed from the prefix "be-" (meaning to cause to be) and the root "wilder" (from Old English "wildor", meaning wild or untamed). The word describes the act of causing someone to be in a state of wild confusion or disorientation.

Memory Tip

Think of being 'caused to be' ('be-') in a 'wild' state ('wilder') — that's why bewilder means to confuse or disorient.

Visually Confused Words