bemused

[ bih-myoozd ]

adjective

1. bewildered or confused:

   a bemused expression on his face.

2. lost in thought; preoccupied.
3. mildly amused, especially in a detached way.

bemused

/ bɪˈmjuːzd; bɪˈmjuːzɪdlɪ /

adjective

1. preoccupied; lost in thought

Confusables Note

See bemuse.

Derived Forms

• bemusedly, adverb

Other Words From

• be·mus·ed·ly [bih-, myoo, -zid-lee], adverb
• unbe·mused adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of bemused¹

First recorded in 1695–1705; bemuse + -ed ²

Example Sentences

They had not long set sail when they learned the wrong coffin had been loaded so they returned to port and it was swapped over - in full view of the bemused passengers.

From BBC

I departed, along with other bemused reporters, taking with us any lingering doubts that this would prove to be yet another dead-end in the quest to unmask Satoshi.

From BBC

Some locals from their visit were allowed to come in, but many watched bemused from their houses nearby.

From BBC

Zo soon moved into a hotel in Piccadilly and joined up with the Polish authorities, who were bemused by the arrival of someone who had gained legendary status - but was also a woman.

From BBC

Fans of the show have noticed the word's use too - some appreciative and some bemused.

From BBC

Related Words

• befuddled
• bewildered
• dazed
• perplexed
• puzzled