bemused
UK: bɪˈmjuːzd | US: bɪˈmjuːzd
adj. 1. puzzled, confused, or bewildered
adj. 2. lost in thought; preoccupied
bemused = be<thoroughly> + muse<ponder>
- be-: A prefix from Old English, meaning "thoroughly" or "about," often used to intensify the meaning of the root.
- muse: Derived from Old French muser ("to ponder, stare in wonder"), possibly linked to Latin musum ("snout," metaphorically suggesting idle staring).
Etymology Origin:
The word bemused emerged in the early 18th century, combining the intensifying prefix be- with muse (to reflect deeply). Originally, it implied being absorbed in thought, but over time, it shifted toward confusion—likely due to the association of staring blankly while pondering. The modern sense of "puzzled" dominates, though literary usage sometimes retains the older meaning.
She gave a bemused smile when asked about the riddle.
The professor looked bemused by the student’s unconventional theory.
His bemused expression suggested he hadn’t understood the joke.
Tourists often appear bemused by the city’s labyrinthine streets.
The cat watched the laser pointer with bemused curiosity.