adjective
bemused
bih-MYOOZD
Bemused (adjective) means Confused and unable to make sense of something. Example: “He gave a bemused shrug when asked to explain the rules.”
adjective
1
Confused and unable to make sense of something.
"He gave a bemused shrug when asked to explain the rules."
"She looked at the strange contraption with a bemused expression."
"The tourists wore bemused looks as they studied the map."
2
Lost in thought and paying little attention to what is around.
"He sat in a bemused silence, staring out of the window."
"She wandered around the garden in a bemused daze."
How to use bemused
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishPuzzled, or a bit lost in your own thoughts.
When to use it
Bemused is neutral in tone and fits both everyday speech and formal writing.
Memory tip
Remember that bemused signals confusion, not enjoyment, even though it sounds like amused.
Trace the full origin ↓
Easily confused with
Common pairings
bemused expression
bemused look
bemused smile
slightly bemused
Vocabulary Flow
Build your vocabulary from words like bemused.
Vocabulary Flow serves the next word, and the next — meaning, pronunciation and an example each time. Practice at your level, or learn English in your own language.
Start vocabulary practice
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
He gave a _____ shrug when asked to explain the rules.
Etymology
Bemused began as the past participle of the verb bemuse, and this form is now the one most commonly used, functioning as an adjective in its own right.
Synonyms
View more →Related words
Rhymes for bemused
See all rhymes for bemused →Frequently asked questions
What does bemused mean?
It usually describes someone who is confused or puzzled by something, though it can also mean lost in thought.
Is bemused the same as amused?
No. Bemused means confused or puzzled, while amused means entertained or finding something funny; the two are often mixed up because they look similar.
How do you use bemused in a sentence?
It is typically used to describe a person's expression or reaction, as in 'she wore a bemused smile' or 'he remained bemused throughout the meeting'.
What is the meaning of bemused?
"bemused" (adjective) means confused and unable to make sense of something.
