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Dumbfounding: meaning, definitions and examples

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dumbfounding

 

[ ˈdʌmfaʊndɪŋ ]

Adjective
Context #1 | Adjective

emotional response

Dumbfounding refers to something that is so astonishing or surprising that it leaves one speechless or unable to react. It often describes situations or events that are unexpected and overwhelming in their impact. The term can be applied to various scenarios, such as remarkable achievements, shocking news, or bewildering circumstances that invoke a strong emotional response. In essence, when something is described as dumbfounding, it evokes a sense of awe or disbelief.

Synonyms

astonishing, astounding, flabbergasting, mind-blowing, stunning

Examples of usage

  • The magician's trick was dumbfounding.
  • Her sudden success was nothing short of dumbfounding.
  • The news left everyone in a dumbfounding silence.

Translations

Translations of the word "dumbfounding" in other languages:

🇵🇹 atordoante

🇮🇳 चौंका देने वाला

🇩🇪 verblüffend

🇮🇩 menakjubkan

🇺🇦 приголомшливий

🇵🇱 zdumiewający

🇯🇵 驚くべき

🇫🇷 stupéfiant

🇪🇸 asombroso

🇹🇷 şok edici

🇰🇷 놀라운

🇸🇦 مذهل

🇨🇿 ohromující

🇸🇰 ohromujúci

🇨🇳 令人震惊的

🇸🇮 osupljiv

🇮🇸 furðulegur

🇰🇿 таңқаларлық

🇬🇪 საშიში

🇦🇿 düşündürücü

🇲🇽 asombroso

Word origin

The word ‘dumbfound’ is derived from the combination of ‘dumb’ meaning unable to speak (or silent) and ‘found’ which relates to the verb form of finding oneself in a state of shock or surprise. Etymologically, ‘dumb’ can trace back to Middle English and Old English origins, where it meant mute or unable to speak. The modern connotation of the word has evolved to express a reaction where a person is rendered speechless by astonishment. The suffix ‘-ing’ turns ‘dumbfound’ into an adjective, describing the state induced by such astonishment. The use of the word has gained traction in various contexts, commonly employed in literature, discussions, and casual speech to emphasize degrees of surprise or disbelief in a given situation.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #41,982, this word is among the less frequently used terms in English. While interesting to know, it's not crucial for most English learners unless needed for specific purposes.