bamboozle

verb

bam·​boo·​zle bam-ˈbü-zəl 

bamboozled; bamboozling

bam-ˈbüz-liŋ, 

-ˈbü-zə- 

transitive verb

1

: to deceive by underhanded methods : dupe, hoodwink

I got bamboozled by the salesperson to buy a more expensive model.

2

: to confuse, frustrate, or throw off thoroughly or completely

a quarterback bamboozled by an unexpected defense

bamboozlement

bam-ˈbü-zəl-mənt 

noun

Did you know?

In 1710, Irish author Jonathan Swift wrote an article on "the continual Corruption of our English Tongue" in which he complained of "the Choice of certain Words invented by some pretty Fellows." (Note that pretty originally meant "artful, clever.") Among the inventions Swift disliked was bamboozle, which was used by contemporary criminals. Beyond those who favored the word, little is known of its early days, but the word has clearly defied Swift's assertion that "All new affected Modes of Speech ... are the first perishing Parts in any Language." With its first syllable like a sound effect, bamboozle hints at mystification or magic when it is used to mean "to confuse, frustrate, or perplex," as in "The batters were bamboozled by the pitcher's dazzling curveball."

Synonyms of bamboozle

• deceive
• trick
• fool

Examples of bamboozle in a Sentence

bamboozled by con men into buying worthless land in the desert

I'm completely bamboozled by the latest changes in the tax code

Recent Examples on the Web

The home team turned it on during a sparkling first half and took the lead in the 32nd minute when Ao Tanaka’s shot from the edge of the box took a double deflection to bamboozle Newcastle keeper Lukas Hornicek. — ABC News, 14 Sep. 2026

The standout moment was the assist delivered against Rayo — an impressive backheel to Raphinha that bamboozled the defence. — Pol Ballús, New York Times, 9 Sep. 2026

The filmmaker has likened his perspective in this project to that of Dorothy’s dog Toto in The Wizard of Oz, alert to the shuffling feet beneath the curtain rather than being bamboozled by the shyster title character’s techno showmanship. — David Rooney, HollywoodReporter, 8 Sep. 2026

Allie is bamboozled by a sleazy musician, who serenades her with an ode to date rape. — Alexandra Schwartz, New Yorker, 21 Aug. 2026

Word History

Etymology

origin unknown

First Known Use

1703, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for bamboozle

• occlusal
• perusal
• recusal
• refusal

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Kids Definition

bamboozle

verb

bam·​boo·​zle bam-ˈbü-zəl 

bamboozled; bamboozling

1

: to deceive by trickery : hoodwink

2

: to confuse, frustrate, or throw off completely