stupefy

verb

stu·​pe·​fy ˈstü-pə-ˌfī 

ˈstyü-

stupefied; stupefying

transitive verb

1

: to make stupid, groggy, or insensible

2

: astonish, astound

stupefyingly

ˈstü-pə-ˌfī-iŋ-lē 

ˈstyü-

adverb

Synonyms of stupefy

• amaze
• stun
• surprise
• astonish
• startle
• shock

Examples of stupefy in a Sentence

stupefied by the ruling that he could not compete because he missed the qualifying age by two days

Recent Examples on the Web

Sometimes sweaty, sometimes sneering, often grandiose, and always conflicted, this Hansen presents the actor with a marvelous opportunity to demonstrate his stupefying range. — Bilge Ebiri, Vulture, 14 Sep. 2026

Starting with a tone-setting marvel early, Room contorted and unfurled himself to 15 saves — including several other stupefying ones. — Kansas City Star, 21 June 2026

Fresh juices, quality rums, pristine drinkmaking technique — the Cove stupefied with its faultless approach. — Scott Hocker, TheWeek, 30 Mar. 2026

How will his writing team metabolize the stupefying scene at this year’s BAFTAs into his routine? — Doreen St. Félix, New Yorker, 28 Feb. 2026

Word History

Etymology

Middle English stupifien, modification of Latin stupefacere, from stupēre to be astonished + facere to make, do — more at do entry 1

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for stupefy

• beefy
• leafy

Kids Definition

stupefy

verb

stu·​pe·​fy ˈst(y)ü-pə-ˌfī 

stupefied; stupefying

1

: astonish, bewilder

the strange sight stupefied the crowd

2

: to make stupid, groggy, or numb

stupefied by the huge meal

Medical Definition

stupefy

transitive verb

stu·​pe·​fy ˈst(y)ü-pə-ˌfī 

stupefied; stupefying

: to make stupid, groggy, or insensible

stupefied by anesthesia