Bewilder: meaning, definitions and examples

Etymology

• The word 'bewilder' comes from the prefix 'be-' meaning to make or cause, and 'wilder,' which is related to wild or confusing.
• It first appeared in the early 17th century, originally meaning to lead into the wild.
• Over time, 'bewilder' evolved to refer to a state of confusion rather than being physically lost.

Psychology

• Feeling bewildered can trigger anxiety as the mind struggles to process unexpected situations.
• Research shows that too many choices can lead to a state of bewilderment commonly known as 'choice overload.'
• Cognitive dissonance, when beliefs contradict experiences, often leaves individuals feeling bewildered.

Literature

• Classic literature often employs bewilderment to reveal a character's inner turmoil, reflecting their struggle with complex emotions.
• Authors like Kafka and Lewis Carroll have skillfully used bewilderment in their works to challenge readers' perceptions of reality.
• In children's stories, bewilderment is frequently portrayed through characters facing strange or magical situations, enhancing the sense of adventure.

Pop Culture

• The feeling of bewilderment is a common theme in movies where characters find themselves in bizarre or unfamiliar worlds, like in 'Alice in Wonderland.'
• Many songs capture feelings of confusion, using the concept of being lost or bewildered as metaphors for relationship struggles.
• Magical realism in films often leaves audiences bewildered, blending the normal with the extraordinary.

Education

• Teachers often find students bewildered when introducing new and complex topics, highlighting the importance of clear explanations.
• Group discussions can sometimes bewilder participants, especially if opinions are widely differing, making it essential to facilitate dialogue.
• Understanding how bewilderment works can help educators create strategies to guide students through challenging concepts.

This word's position of #31,867 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.

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• 31864 fondle
• 31865 privatizing
• 31866 elided
• 31867 bewilder
• 31868 scourging
• 31869 condemnatory
• 31870 adsorbing
• ...