bedazzle
Verb: 1. To greatly impress or overwhelm someone, often to the point of confusion or temporary blindness of perception: This meaning describes causing someone to be so amazed, captivated, or overwhelmed by something (like brilliance, beauty, or spectacle) that their judgment or clear vision is affected. It often implies a sense of wonder or being overpowered by an experience. 2. To decorate with brilliant or glittering ornaments: This less common meaning refers to adorning something so that it shines or sparkles brilliantly.
The verb "bedazzle" is typically used with a direct object (a person or, less commonly, a thing). It describes the action of the impressive thing on the observer or recipient. It is often used in passive constructions (e.g., "was bedazzled by").
- The magician's incredible illusions bedazzled the entire audience.
- Visitors are often bedazzled by the sheer opulence of the palace's gold decorations.
- The young actress was bedazzled by the glamour and attention of Hollywood.
- (Less common) The costume designer bedazzled the gown with thousands of tiny sequins.
- "to bedazzle someone with something": This structure specifies the means of causing the overwhelming impression.
- He bedazzled the interview panel with his knowledge and confidence.
- Figurative Use: Often used figuratively, not involving literal light, but rather metaphorical brilliance (e.g., of talent, wealth, or personality).
- Her witty conversation bedazzled everyone at the party.
- Dazzle (verb): A more common synonym meaning to impress greatly or to blind temporarily with light. "Bedazzle" can sometimes imply a more complete or overwhelming effect.
- Bedazzling (adjective): Extremely impressive, beautiful, or brilliant.
- The fireworks display was bedazzling.
- Bedazzlement (noun): The state of being bedazzled.
- She stared in bedazzlement at the treasure.
- Dazzle
- Astonish
- Overwhelm
- Enthrall
- Captivate
- Bewilder (emphasizes the confusing aspect)
- Bore
- Underwhelm
- Disappoint
- Clarify
- A bedazzling array/display of...: Used to describe an overwhelmingly impressive collection or show of something.
- The market offered a bedazzling array of spices and silks.
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to cause someone to lose clear vision, especially from intense light
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She was dazzled by the bright headlights
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