VocabDictionary

fluster

/ˈflʌs.tər/intermediate Level

English Meaning & Definitions

1.verb

To make someone agitated, confused, or nervous, especially by surprising them or giving them too many things to do at once.

Example Sentences:
  • The unexpected questions from the reporters began to fluster the politician.
  • Try not to let minor mistakes fluster you during the presentation.
2.noun

A state of nervous confusion or agitation.

Example Sentences:
  • She was in such a fluster that she forgot her car keys on the kitchen counter.
  • After a brief fluster, he regained his composure and answered the question.
Share & Learn With Friends

Share “fluster” with study groups, classmates, or on your social channels.

English Synonyms & Near Equivalents

English Antonyms & Opposites

Comprehensive Thesaurus Breakdown

Compare formal, informal, literary synonyms and register nuances for “fluster”.

Thesaurus Entry
Cultural Origin & Etymology

Originating in the late 16th century, likely as a frequentative of dialect words such as 'flush' (meaning to fly up or flow suddenly) or related to Old Norse 'flaustra' (to bustle or be flustered). It originally conveyed the idea of becoming heated or confused with drink, before broadening to describe general nervous agitation.

Memory Aid & Mnemonic

Think of a **cluster** of urgent tasks that makes you **fluster** and lose your cool.

Frequently Asked Questions About “fluster

1. What is the meaning of “fluster” in English?

In English, fluster (verb) is defined as: “To make someone agitated, confused, or nervous, especially by surprising them or giving them too many things to do at once.”.

2. How do you use “fluster” in a sentence?

The unexpected questions from the reporters began to fluster the politician.

3. What are English synonyms of “fluster”?

Common synonyms include:agitate,disconcert,flurry,perturb,unnerve

4. What is the etymology and word origin of “fluster”?

Originating in the late 16th century, likely as a frequentative of dialect words such as 'flush' (meaning to fly up or flow suddenly) or related to Old Norse 'flaustra' (to bustle or be flustered). It originally conveyed the idea of becoming heated or confused with drink, before broadening to describe general nervous agitation.