Dumbfoundment

/dʌmˈfaʊndmənt/ noun

Definition

The state of being dumbfounded; shock and confusion so complete that you lose the ability to respond.

Etymology

Alternate or variant formation of 'dumbfounderment,' using '-ment' directly on 'dumbfound' to create an abstract noun for the condition of being dumbfounded.

Kelly Says

English has at least three ways to nominalize this feeling—dumbfoundment, dumbfounderment, and dumbfoundedness—showing how speakers kept trying different word patterns to capture shock.

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