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Definition of befuddle

befuddle

/bɪˈfʌd.əl/
be · fud · dle
Adjective:befuddled
•
Past Simple:befuddled
•
Past Participle:befuddled
•
Present Participle:befuddling
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befuddle Lexical Profile

befuddle Game Scores & Validity

• verb

1

To make someone unable to think clearly; to confuse or perplex.

Example

"The complex tax regulations continue to befuddle even experienced accountants."

2

To make someone stupefied or muddled, especially through the consumption of alcohol.

Example

"Too much strong wine began to befuddle the guests before dinner was even served."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• Rhymes for befuddle

• Nearby Words

befoul
befriend
befriender
befuddle
befuddled
befuddlement
beg

Word Origin & Etymology

Coined in the late 19th century by combining the intensive prefix 'be-' with the verb 'fuddle' (meaning to stupefy with drink or confuse), which is likely of Low German or Dutch origin.

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Befuddle. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/befuddle
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