befuddle
UK: bɪˈfʌd(ə)l | US: bɪˈfʌd(ə)l
vt. to confuse or perplex someone
vt. to make someone unable to think clearly (often due to alcohol or intoxication)
The word "befuddle" combines the intensive prefix "be-" (used to strengthen the meaning of verbs) with "fuddle," an older term meaning "to confuse" or "to intoxicate." "Fuddle" itself likely derives from the obsolete word "fuddle-cap," a term for a drunkard, possibly influenced by Low German or Dutch roots. Over time, "befuddle" evolved to emphasize a state of mental confusion, whether literal (from alcohol) or figurative.
The complex instructions befuddled the new employees.
He was completely befuddled after drinking too much at the party.
Her sudden question befuddled him, leaving him speechless.
The magician's tricks befuddled the audience.
Don't befuddle the issue with irrelevant details.