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Definition of bemusement

bemusement

/bɪˈmjuːzmənt/
be · muse · ment
Adverb:bemusedly
•
Plural:bemusements
•
Adjective:bemused
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bemusement Lexical Profile

bemusement Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

A state of confusion, bewilderment, or perplexity, often accompanied by a sense of wry or detached amusement.

Example

"She watched the chaotic debate with a look of mild bemusement."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
View all antonyms for bemusement

Word Nuance & Usage

'Bemusement' traditionally denotes confusion or bewilderment, though in modern usage it frequently carries a secondary nuance of wry, detached amusement at something baffling; it should not be used as a simple synonym for 'amusement'.

• Rhymes for bemusement

• Nearby Words

bemuse
bemused
bemusedly
bemusement
bemusing
ben
ben nevis

Word Origin & Etymology

Formed in the early 18th century from the verb 'bemuse' (combining the intensive prefix 'be-' with 'muse', from Old French 'muser', meaning 'to ponder or loiter') and the noun-forming suffix '-ment'.

Cite this Entry

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