addle
UK: ˈæd.l̩ | US: ˈæd.l̩
vt./vi. 1. To make or become confused or muddled.
adj. 2. (of an egg) Rotten or infertile.
adj. 3. (archaic) Empty; worthless.
addle = add<old/mud> + le<verb suffix>
- add<old/mud>: From Old English adela, meaning "filth, liquid manure," later extended to "mental stagnation."
- le<verb suffix>: A frequentative or diminutive suffix in Old English, indicating a repeated or small action.
Etymology Origin:
The word "addle" began as a term for literal decay (rotten eggs) and physical filth (adela), then metaphorically expanded to describe mental confusion ("addle-headed"). The suffix -le likely reinforced the sense of ongoing deterioration. This dual meaning reflects a common linguistic pattern where physical decay terms evolve to describe abstract states of disorder.
The heat seemed to addle his brain, making it hard to think.
The farmer discarded the addle eggs from the nest.
Her addle remarks revealed her exhaustion.
Don’t let fear addle your judgment.
(Archaic) His promises proved addle and without substance.