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bemuse

verb

/bɪˈmyuz/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of bemuse

To cause someone to feel confused, puzzled, or bewildered.
"The complex math problem seemed to bemuse the entire class."

Detailed meaning of bemuse

When someone is bemused, they find themselves in a state of mental perplexity or amusement. It is as if their thoughts and emotions are momentarily suspended, leading to a sense of mild bewilderment. This can occur when faced with a perplexing situation, an unexpected turn of events, or when encountering something that challenges one's understanding or expectations. Bemusement often involves a mixture of curiosity, surprise, and amusement, leaving individuals temporarily unsure of how to react or comprehend what they are experiencing.

Example sentences containing bemuse

1. The intricate puzzle did bemuse me for several hours.
2. Will this collection of strange artifacts bemuse our visitors?
3. The enigmatic expression on his face continues to bemuse all who meet him.
4. How can a simple game of chess bemuse such an intelligent mind?
5. Modern art never fails to bemuse and perplex its observers.
6. I find that abstract concepts in mathematics can often bemuse even the most dedicated students.

History and etymology of bemuse

The verb 'bemuse' has a somewhat perplexing etymology of its own. It originates from the combination of two words: 'be-' and 'muse.' 'Be-' is a prefix that often denotes intensification or completeness, while 'muse' originally meant 'to meditate' or 'to ponder deeply.' Over time, 'muse' evolved to encompass the sense of engaging in thought or contemplation. Therefore, when you put these elements together, 'bemuse' seems to suggest an intensification of thought or contemplation. However, in its modern usage, 'bemuse' means to cause someone to be confused or bewildered rather than deeply thoughtful. This change in meaning is an interesting linguistic shift, as 'bemuse' now conveys the idea of causing someone to be lost in thought in a confused or puzzled manner, reflecting the evolution of language and its sometimes unpredictable semantic changes.

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Further usage examples of bemuse

1. The labyrinthine structure of the city is sure to bemuse any new arrivals.
2. The complexities of quantum physics bemuse most non-scientists.
3. His cryptic remarks often bemuse listeners, leading to various interpretations.
4. Why does contemporary dance bemuse you so much?
5. Surrealist poetry is known to bemuse many readers with its dream-like imagery.
6. The unexpected plot twist in the novel is sure to bemuse its readers.
7. Could this enigmatic riddle bemuse the best of us?
8. The arcane language of the ancient texts will surely bemuse the uninitiated.
9. Her unconventional approach to teaching often does bemuse new students.
10. The intricacies of the stock market bemuse many who are new to investing.
11. The peculiar customs of this tribe may bemuse outsiders.
12. Does the paradox of time travel bemuse you as much as it does me?
13. The magnitude of the universe can truly bemuse anyone who ponders it.
14. The decision to introduce such a controversial policy did bemuse many in the political circle.