Stupefied Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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stupefied

[หˆstjuหpษชfaษชd ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adjective

feeling

In a state of mental numbness, confusion, or shock.

Synonyms

astonished, bewildered, dazed.

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Word Description / Examples
stupefied

This word was listed twice.

dazed

Often used when someone is in a state of stunned confusion or shock, usually due to a sudden impact, both literally and figuratively. It can describe a physical and mental state.

  • The blow to his head left him dazed.
  • She walked around in a dazed state after hearing the bad news.
bewildered

Used when someone is confused and unsure about what to do, often due to a lack of understanding or too much information. It can imply frustration.

  • He felt bewildered by the complex instructions.
  • She was left bewildered after the sudden announcement.
astonished

Typically used when someone is very surprised, usually in a positive way. It is often used in everyday conversations and has a neutral or slightly positive connotation.

  • She was astonished by how much her children had grown.
  • I was astonished to see my old friend after so many years.

Examples of usage

  • I was completely stupefied by the news of his sudden death.
  • The unexpected turn of events left her stupefied.
  • His stupefied expression showed that he couldn't believe what he was hearing.
Context #2 | Verb

action

To astonish and shock someone so that they are unable to think clearly.

Synonyms

amaze, startle, stun.

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Word Description / Examples
stupefied

Use this word when someone is so shocked or surprised that they cannot think or act normally. Often has a sense of being overwhelmed.

  • He was stupefied by the news of his promotion.
  • The magic trick left the audience stupefied.
amaze

This word is best when describing someone being very surprised or impressed, usually in a positive way.

  • The magician's performance continues to amaze the crowds.
  • I was amazed by the beauty of the sunset.
startle

Use this word when someone is suddenly surprised or frightened by something unexpected.

  • The loud noise from the fireworks startled the baby.
  • She was startled to see a deer in her backyard.
stun

This word is suitable when describing a person being temporarily unable to react because of shock or a strong impact. It can be used both in physical and emotional contexts.

  • The sudden announcement stunned everyone in the room.
  • He was stunned after being hit in the head during the game.

Examples of usage

  • The magician's trick stupefied the audience.
  • The sudden loud noise stupefied the cat.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Psychology

  • When someone is stupefied, their cognitive processes slow down, similar to how one might feel in a state of extreme surprise or fear.
  • Studies show that overwhelming information can cause a stupefied state, making it hard for people to absorb new ideas or messages.

Literature

  • Authors like Charles Dickens and Edgar Allan Poe used the word to portray characters in moments of shock or realization.
  • In literature, this feeling often precedes a character's transformation or revelation, marking critical plot changes.

Pop Culture

  • 'Stupefied' often appears in movie scripts during crucial twists, where characters become overwhelmed by unexpected events.
  • The term has also been used in various songs to describe feelings of bafflement and confusion in relationships.

Education

  • Teaching styles that overwhelm can leave students feeling stupefied, highlighting the need for clear communication.
  • In learning environments, being stupefied can stall progress, emphasizing the importance of pacing and engagement.

Origin of 'stupefied'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin 'stupefacere', which means 'to make numb or astonished.'
  • It first appeared in English texts around the 15th century, related to feelings of shock or bewilderment.

The word 'stupefied' originates from the combination of the Latin word 'stupeo' meaning 'to be amazed or stunned' and the suffix '-fied' which is used to form adjectives indicating a state or condition. Over time, the word has evolved to describe a state of mental numbness or shock, as well as the action of astonishing or shocking someone.


Word Frequency Rank

At rank #25,955, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.