jumble

[ juhm-buhl ]

verb (used with object)

, jum·bled, jum·bling.

1. to mix in a confused mass; put or throw together without order:

   You've jumbled up all the cards.

   Antonyms: separate

2. to confuse mentally; muddle.

verb (used without object)

, jum·bled, jum·bling.

1. to be mixed together in a disorderly heap or mass.
2. to meet or come together confusedly.

noun

1. a mixed or disordered heap or mass:

   a jumble of paper clips, rubber bands, and string.

2. a confused mixture; medley.
3. a state of confusion or disorder.

   Synonyms: chaos, muddle, mess, gallimaufry, farrago, hodgepodge

   Antonyms: order

4. Also jumbal. a small, round, flat cake or cookie with a hole in the middle.

jumble

/ ˈdʒʌmbəl /

verb

1. to mingle (objects, papers, etc) in a state of disorder
2. tr; usually passive to remember in a confused form; muddle

noun

1. a disordered mass, state, etc
2. articles donated for a jumble sale
3. Also calledjumbal a small thin cake, usually ring-shaped

Derived Forms

• ˈjumbly, adjective
• ˈjumbler, noun

Other Words From

• jum·ble·ment noun
• jum·bler noun
• jum·bling·ly adverb
• un·jum·bled adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of jumble¹

1520–30; perhaps blend of joll to bump (now dial.) and tumble

Word History and Origins

Origin of jumble¹

C16: of uncertain origin

Related Words

• assortment
• mishmash
• pastiche
• patchwork
• tangle