bewildered
UK: bɪˈwɪldəd | US: bɪˈwɪldərd
adj. confused and uncertain
adj. perplexed or disoriented
The word "bewildered" originates from the prefix "be-" (an intensifier in Old English) combined with "wild" (from Old English wilde, meaning "untamed" or "uncultivated"). The suffix "-ered" transforms it into an adjective, suggesting a state of being overwhelmed as if lost in an untamed, chaotic environment. Historically, it evokes the imagery of someone mentally "lost in the wilderness," hence its modern meaning of deep confusion.
She looked bewildered after hearing the unexpected news.
The complex instructions left the students utterly bewildered.
He stood bewildered in the middle of the unfamiliar city.
The sudden change in plans bewildered the entire team.
Her cryptic message left me completely bewildered.