dazzle
UK: ˈdæz.əl | US: ˈdæz.əl
vt. to blind or confuse temporarily with bright light
vt. to impress or astonish greatly
n. a bright, overwhelming light or showy brilliance
dazzle = daze<to stun> + le<frequentative verb suffix>
- daze (from Old Norse dasa, "to weary" or "become exhausted") evolved to mean "stun" or "confuse."
- le is a frequentative suffix in English, indicating repeated or prolonged action (e.g., sparkle, crackle).
Etymology Origin:
"Dazzle" originated in Middle English (15th century) as an intensified form of "daze," combining the idea of stunning with repetitive action. The suffix "-le" suggests a sustained effect—like light repeatedly overwhelming vision. Over time, it expanded metaphorically to describe anything overwhelmingly impressive.
The sunlight reflected off the snow can dazzle drivers.
Her performance dazzled the audience with its creativity.
The diamond’s dazzle made it the centerpiece of the exhibit.
He was dazzled by the city’s neon lights at night.
The magician’s tricks never fail to dazzle children.