Definition

A state of being confused about where you are, what time it is, or who you are.

Example

After waking up from the surgery, she felt a sense of disorientation and couldn't remember where she was.

Conversation

I felt such a sense of disorientation when I got lost in that new city.

I can imagine! It’s easy to feel that way in unfamiliar places.

Exactly! It took me a while to regain my bearings.

Yeah, sometimes a map helps, but it can be overwhelming.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Disorientation → It is formed from "dis-" (meaning apart or away) and "orientare" (meaning to set in a particular direction). The word describes the state of being set away from one's direction or sense of position.

Memory Tip

Think of being 'set apart' ('dis-') from your 'direction' ('orientare') — that's why disorientation means losing your sense of direction.

Visually Confused Words