fluster

[ fluhs-ter ]

verb (used with object)

1. to put into a state of agitated confusion:

   His constant criticism flustered me.

   Synonyms: disturb, disconcert, bewilder, upset

2. to excite and confuse with drink.

verb (used without object)

1. to become agitatedly confused.

noun

1. nervous excitement or confusion.

   Synonyms: distraction, bewilderment, upset, agitation, turmoil

fluster

/ ˈflʌstə /

verb

1. to make or become confused, nervous, or upset

noun

1. a state of confusion or agitation

Word History and Origins

Origin of fluster¹

First recorded in 1375–1425; late Middle English flostren; bluster, Old Norse flaustra “to hurry”

Word History and Origins

Origin of fluster¹

C15: probably of Scandinavian origin; compare Icelandic flaustr to hurry, flaustra to bustle

Example Sentences

The Falcons lack a great pass rush but might not need one to fluster Vikings rookie QB Jaren Hall, making his debut.

From Los Angeles Times

Every time, he managed to fluster me anyway.

From Slate

I always told myself I wouldn’t let Harry fluster me.

From Slate

Throughout the attempts, I was also struck that nothing seemed to fluster the AI.

From Scientific American

Days earlier, a mob of juveniles bum-rushed the Chanel store downtown, using a fire extinguisher to fluster patrons and employees while they made off with high-priced merchandise.

From Washington Times

Related Words

• agitate
• bewilder
• confound
• confuse
• discombobulate
• distract
• muddle
• mystify
• nonplus
• perplex
• unhinge