bedazzled: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C1Informal, literary, sometimes humorous
Quick answer
What does “bedazzled” mean?
To be so impressed or amazed by something's brilliance, beauty, or complexity that one is temporarily confused or unable to think clearly.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
To be so impressed or amazed by something's brilliance, beauty, or complexity that one is temporarily confused or unable to think clearly.
To be visually overwhelmed or enchanted, often by glittering lights, elaborate decoration, or dazzling spectacle. Can also imply being deceived or misled by a superficial, attractive appearance.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant difference in meaning. The verb 'bedazzle' is used in both varieties.
Connotations
In both, it can imply genuine wonder or a slightly ironic overstatement. The noun 'bedazzler' (a tool for applying rhinestones) is more common in US crafting contexts.
Frequency
Slightly higher frequency in UK English in literary/descriptive contexts, but overall low frequency in both.
Grammar
How to Use “bedazzled” in a Sentence
[Subject] is/was bedazzled by [Object/Experience][Subject] left [Object] bedazzledVocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “bedazzled” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- The magician's finale bedazzled the entire theatre.
- She was completely bedazzled by the Crown Jewels.
American English
- The Vegas strip bedazzles first-time visitors.
- He bedazzled the crowd with his performance.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Rare. Possibly in marketing: 'The new design left the clients bedazzled.'
Academic
Very rare, except in literary or cultural analysis describing a character's state.
Everyday
Used for strong reactions to visual spectacle: Christmas lights, stage performances, jewellery.
Technical
Not used.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “bedazzled”
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “bedazzled”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “bedazzled”
- Using it as a standard synonym for 'impressed' (it's stronger). *'I was bedazzled by his good presentation.' (Overuse). Confusing it with 'bejewelled' (which is only about decoration).
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Usually positive, describing wonder and amazement. However, it can carry a negative connotation of being easily fooled by superficial glitter, as in 'bedazzled by fame'.
Primarily visual, but it can be extended metaphorically to other overwhelming experiences, e.g., 'bedazzled by her intelligence'.
'Bedazzled' is more intense and often implies a state of confusion or enchantment that lasts, whereas 'dazzled' can be a more momentary, strong visual impression.
Yes, the standard spelling uses a double 'z' (bedazzled). The single 'z' variant (bedazzled) is a common misspelling.
To be so impressed or amazed by something's brilliance, beauty, or complexity that one is temporarily confused or unable to think clearly.
Bedazzled is usually informal, literary, sometimes humorous in register.
Bedazzled: in British English it is pronounced /bɪˈdæz(ə)ld/, and in American English it is pronounced /bɪˈdæzəld/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “Bedazzled by the bright lights (of the city/fame)”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Imagine a BED covered in AZure (blue) and DAZZLing sequins. You are BED-AZZLED by it.
Conceptual Metaphor
VISION IS UNDERSTANDING (to be bedazzled is to be 'blinded' to reality or clear thought by visual stimulus).
Practice
Quiz
Which situation best describes someone who is 'bedazzled'?