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Dizzying: meaning, definitions and examples

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dizzying

 

[ ˈdɪziɪŋ ]

Adjective
Context #1 | Adjective

sensory experience

Dizzying refers to a sensation of being lightheaded or disoriented, often as a result of rapid movement or overwhelming stimuli. It can be associated with vertigo, where one feels faint or unsteady, usually due to a quick change in perspective or height. The term can also describe something so impressive or confusing that it overwhelms the senses, creating a feeling of exhilaration or bewilderment.

Synonyms

astounding, confounding, overwhelming, stunning

Examples of usage

  • The dizzying heights of the skyscraper left me breathless.
  • He spun around in a dizzying dance, losing track of where he was.
  • The dizzying array of options made the decision difficult.

Word origin

The word 'dizzying' is derived from the Middle English term 'dizzie,' which meant 'giddy' or 'faint.' The roots can be traced back to the Old Norse word 'dǫtt,' meaning 'to fall,' which reflects the feeling associated with dizziness. Historically, dizziness has been linked to various physical conditions and states of disorientation, leading to the evolution of the term in English. The combination of 'dizzy' with the suffix '-ing' serves to express the continuous nature of the sensation, indicating that something is causing an ongoing feeling of lightheadedness or confusion. The use of 'dizzying' has expanded over time, often applied in both literal and metaphorical contexts, such as describing dizzying heights or dizzying speeds in sports and literature.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #25,540, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.