Wilder
Verb
- Cause to lose one’s way; lead or drive astray.
- Perplex; bewilder.
Example Sentences
“Her cryptic remarks wildered the guests, who weren’t sure if she was joking.”
“Conflicting instructions only served to wilder the new interns further.”
“The maze of narrow streets wildered the tourists into circles.”
Word Origin
Unknown, early 17th century
Why this word?
Someone might use a comparative form of the adjective “wild” to describe something out of control, as in, “Our new puppy is wilder than all three kids combined.” It’s not quite correct grammar (that would be “more wild”), but your point would get across. The “wilder” we’re talking about here, though, is the verb “wilder,” meaning either “perplex” or “drive astray.” It’s an archaic word, but you’re likely familiar with a more modern synonym: “bewilder.”
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