Addle

To confuse or muddle; to make unable to think clearly as a result of mental distraction or complication. The term is often used to describe a state of mental disorientation, resulting in a loss of clarity or coherence in thought processes. It can also imply a physical sense of dullness or inability to comprehend due to external factors or emotional status.

Addle meaning with examples

• As I struggled through the complex math problems, the intricate symbols began to addle my mind, leaving me frustrated and unable to proceed. Each equation seemed more perplexing than the last, casting a fog over my cognitive abilities. I wished someone could simplify the concepts for me while I regained clarity.
• The unexpected news about the company's merger was so shocking that it addled the employees, creating an atmosphere of uncertainty and confusion. Their usual focus on productivity dwindled as they grappled with the implications of the changes, leading to whispered conversations and anxious glances around the office.
• Walking through the maze of books at the library, all the titles began to addle me, blending together in a jumbled mass of words. Flipping through the pages of unfamiliar authors made it difficult to concentrate; I longed for a clear list of recommendations to guide my choices amid the overwhelming choices.
• After staying up all night studying for the exam, I felt my thoughts mentally addled, making it difficult for me to answer even the simplest questions. The lack of sleep had dulled my wits, and I struggled to recall the information I had worked so hard to memorize.
• The comedian's rapid-fire jokes were so clever that they initially addled the audience, leaving them lost in laughter. As they tried to keep up with the punchlines, it became a delightful struggle, turning confusion into enjoyment as their minds raced to grasp the humor in what was being said.