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Stupefied: meaning, definitions and examples

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stupefied

 

[ˈstjuːpɪfaɪd ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adjective

feeling

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

Synonyms

astonished, bewildered, dazed.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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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.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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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.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • 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.

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.

Translations

Translations of the word "stupefied" in other languages:

🇵🇹 estupefato

🇮🇳 स्तब्ध

🇩🇪 verblüfft

🇮🇩 tercengang

🇺🇦 ошелешений

🇵🇱 oszołomiony

🇯🇵 呆然とした (ぼうぜんとした)

🇫🇷 stupéfait

🇪🇸 atónito

🇹🇷 afallamış

🇰🇷 깜짝 놀란

🇸🇦 مذهول

🇨🇿 ohromený

🇸🇰 omráčený

🇨🇳 目瞪口呆 (mù dèng kǒu dāi)

🇸🇮 osupel

🇮🇸 forviða

🇰🇿 сасқалақтаған

🇬🇪 გაოცებული

🇦🇿 mat-məəttəl

🇲🇽 atónito

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.