discomfit

[ dis-kuhm-fit ]

verb (used with object)

1. to confuse and deject; disconcert:

   to be discomfited by a question.

   Synonyms: disturb, embarrass, discompose

2. to frustrate the plans of; thwart; foil.
3. Archaic. to defeat utterly; rout:

   The army was discomfited in every battle.

noun

1. Archaic. rout; defeat.

discomfit

/ dɪsˈkʌmfɪt /

verb

1. to make uneasy, confused, or embarrassed
2. to frustrate the plans or purpose of
3. archaic.
   to defeat in battle

Derived Forms

• disˈcomfiter, noun
• disˈcomfiture, noun

Other Words From

• dis·comfit·er noun
• undis·comfit·ed adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of discomfit¹

1175–1225; Middle English < Anglo-French descunfit, Old French desconfit, past participle of desconfire, equivalent to des- dis- ¹ + confire to make, accomplish < Latin conficere; confect

Word History and Origins

Origin of discomfit¹

C14: from Old French desconfire to destroy, from des- (indicating reversal) + confire to make, from Latin conficere to produce; see confect

Example Sentences

People who consider it their right to force their religious beliefs on others are not just discomfiting to members of a religious minority like me; they’re frightening.

From Los Angeles Times

And, often, getting discomfited slightly helps that process along.

From Los Angeles Times

Easily discomfited when danced into corners from which the only escape is introspection.

From Salon

A snail is an equally comforting and discomfiting creature.

From Los Angeles Times

They’re so close that you can hear the muffled sounds of their ballet shoes on the carpet and can make eye contact, which feels both intimate and mildly discomfiting.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• demoralize
• disconcert
• perplex
• vex