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surprise

eb68db_20c4f2a023f943648e98f6c9fb1d34af.mp3

stun, clarify, enlighten, explain

astonish,astound,bewilder,confuse,flabbergast,flummox,perplex,stagger

dumbfound

IPA

How to pronounce dumbfound (audio)

Dictionary definition of dumbfound

To leave someone speechless or unable to react because they are so surprised or shocked.
"The unexpected twist in the story will dumbfound readers."

Detailed meaning of dumbfound

Similar to the verb "astound," but with a greater emphasis on leaving someone bewildered or at a loss for words. It can be the result of something unexpected, such as a surprising turn of events or a shocking revelation. It can also be the result of something so astounding or unbelievable that the person is temporarily unable to process it. When someone is dumbfounded, they may be left feeling confused, amazed, or overwhelmed. The feeling of being dumbfounded is often a mix of disbelief, confusion, and awe, and it can be a powerful and memorable experience that leaves a lasting impression.

Example sentences of dumbfound

1. The complicated math problem managed to dumbfound even the brightest students.
2. The magician's tricks never failed to dumbfound the audience.
3. Her ability to speak multiple languages fluently would often dumbfound strangers.
4. The intricate puzzle was designed to dumbfound even the most experienced solvers.
5. The unexpected plot twist in the novel totally dumbfound its readers.
6. His extraordinary knowledge of rare birds would often dumbfound fellow birdwatchers.

History and etymology of dumbfound

The verb 'dumbfound' has its etymological origins in Middle English. It is a combination of two words: 'dumb,' meaning 'mute' or 'speechless,' and 'founden,' meaning 'to have been struck or amazed.' In essence, 'dumbfound' originally meant 'to strike someone speechless.' Over time, the term evolved to describe the act of leaving someone so surprised or shocked that they are rendered momentarily speechless or unable to react. 'Dumbfound' conveys a sense of astonishment or bewilderment that is so profound it temporarily robs a person of their ability to articulate a response. It is often used to describe situations or events that are so unexpected or extraordinary that they leave people at a loss for words.

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Further usage examples of dumbfound

1. The surprising turn of events during the meeting dumbfound everyone in the room.
2. The complexity of the computer program could easily dumbfound novice users.
3. The stunning artwork had the power to dumbfound art critics and enthusiasts alike.
4. The sudden disappearance of the treasure chest left the adventurers dumbfound.
5. The magic trick will dumbfound the audience.
6. Her sudden decision to move abroad may dumbfound her family.
7. These ancient artifacts dumbfound historians with their intricacy.
8. His ability to solve complex puzzles so quickly can dumbfound anyone.
9. The innovative features of this gadget dumbfound the competition.
10. The kid’s wit and intelligence dumbfound his teachers.
11. This bizarre piece of art will surely dumbfound gallery visitors.
12. The singer’s vocal range can dumbfound even experienced musicians.
13. The ancient Egyptian pyramids continue to dumbfound modern engineers.
14. The cleverness of this new invention will dumbfound the market.
15. The climber's death-defying stunts dumbfound his spectators.
16. The secrets of the deep ocean dumbfound even the most experienced marine biologists.
17. Her ability to speak multiple languages fluently dumbfound her peers.
18. The complexity of the human brain continues to dumbfound scientists.
19. His sudden burst of strength will dumbfound his opponents.
20. Her mesmerizing performance in the play will dumbfound the audience.
21. The student’s in-depth knowledge of the subject will dumbfound the professor.
22. His unexpected kindness in that situation can dumbfound anyone.
23. This chef’s creative use of ingredients never fails to dumbfound the diners.

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