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Definition of discombobulation

discombobulation

/dɪs.kəmˌbɑː.bjəˈleɪ.ʃən/
dis · com · bob · u · la · tion
Plural:discombobulations
•
Adjective:discombobulated
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discombobulation Lexical Profile

• noun

1

A state of confusion, disorientation, or embarrassment; the act of disconcerting or throwing into disorder.

Example

"The sudden change in the flight schedule caused widespread discombobulation among the weary travelers."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for discombobulation
Antonyms
View all antonyms for discombobulation

Word Nuance & Usage

Although formed with pseudo-Latinate affixes, 'discombobulation' is primarily used in humorous or informal contexts to describe mild, comical confusion rather than severe distress.

• Rhymes for discombobulation

• Nearby Words

discolorization
discombobulate
discombobulated
discombobulation
discomfit
discomfiting
discomfort

Word Origin & Etymology

Coined in early 19th-century American English from the verb 'discombobulate', a playful pseudo-Latinate alteration of 'discompose' or 'discomfit'.

Usage Trend

Historical frequency of usage in published text.

180019102020
Data source: Google Books Ngram Viewer

Cite this Entry

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