dumfounded
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: //dʌmˈfaʊndɪd//
KK: /dʌmˈfaʊndɪd/
adjective
Definition
Feeling very surprised and unable to speak because of it.
Example
She was dumfounded when she heard the unexpected news.
Conversation
Did you see the ending of that show last night?
I know, right? I was completely dumfounded by it!
I never expected that twist at all!
Same! I was just sitting there, shocked and speechless.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
astonished
astounded
flabbergasted
Antonyms
unimpressed
bored
calm
verb
Definition
To be extremely surprised or shocked, often to the point of being unable to react or respond.
Example
She was dumfounded when she heard the unexpected news.
Tense Forms
Past: dumfounded
Past Participle: dumfounded
Conversation
Did you see the surprise party they threw for Mark?
Yeah, I was completely dumfounded by how many people showed up.
I know, right? I didn't expect it to be that big!
Root Explanation
Dumfounded → The word is formed from 'dum' (from Old English 'dumb', meaning unable to speak) and 'found' (from Old French 'fonder', meaning to establish or lay the foundation). The term 'dumfounded' describes a state of being so shocked or astonished that one is rendered speechless or unable to respond.
Memory Tip
Imagine being so shocked that you can't speak ('dumb') and feel as if your thoughts are 'established' ('found') in a state of disbelief. This helps you remember that 'dumfounded' means being speechless from astonishment.
Visually Confused Words
dumbfounder
unmounded
unfounded