Bewilderment Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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bewilderment

[bษชหˆwษชldษ™rmษ™nt ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

feeling of confusion

Bewilderment is the state of being completely puzzled or confused. It is the feeling of not understanding something or being unable to make sense of a situation.

Synonyms

confusion, perplexity, puzzlement.

Examples of usage

  • The sudden change in plans left him in bewilderment.
  • Her face showed bewilderment as she tried to comprehend the complex instructions.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Psychology

  • Experiencing bewilderment can trigger a search for understanding, sometimes leading to creative problem-solving.
  • Psychological studies have shown that feeling perplexed can activate curiosity, prompting deeper learning.
  • It's often linked to unexpected events that challenge our existing knowledge, influencing emotional responses.

Literature

  • Several classic novels use characters' bewilderment to illustrate pivotal moments of self-discovery or realization.
  • In poetry, feelings of bewilderment often symbolize a disconnect between experience and understanding, conveying a deeper emotional landscape.
  • Writers frequently employ bewilderment to reflect character struggles, showing their inner turmoil or confusion amid unfolding events.

Pop Culture

  • Movies often depict bewilderment as a key character emotion during plot twists, enhancing viewer engagement and surprise.
  • Songs about confusion or feeling lost frequently resonate with audiences, capturing the essence of bewilderment in relatable terms.
  • In animated films, charactersโ€™ bewilderment can create comedic moments, as they respond to bizarre or absurd situations.

Philosophy

  • Philosophers suggest that feelings of bewilderment signal the limits of our understanding, prompting existential inquiries.
  • In philosophical literature, bewilderment serves as a starting point for many discussions on knowledge and perception.
  • Many thinkers advocate that embracing bewilderment can foster personal growth and a better appreciation of the unknown.

Origin of 'bewilderment'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Middle English 'bewilderen', which combines 'be-' (about) and 'wilder' (to lead astray).
  • Initially, it described a state of being lost in the wilderness, connecting to feelings of confusion.
  • By the 17th century, its meaning expanded to describe mental confusion and disorientation.

The word 'bewilderment' originated from the combination of 'be-' meaning thoroughly and 'wilderness', suggesting a state of being lost in a mental wilderness. It first appeared in the English language in the 17th century.


See also: bewilder, bewildered, bewilderedly, bewildering, bewilderingly.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #17,685, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.