bewondering

Bewondering is an archaic or literary term describing the act or state of being filled with wonder, or the act of causing or expressing astonishment. In English, bewondering is most often encountered as the present participle or gerund of the verb bewonder, which means to fill with wonder or to astonish.

Etymology: The word is formed from the prefix be- attached to the noun wonder, with the sense of bringing about or experiencing wonder. It is cognate with the German bewundern (to admire). The corresponding noun is bewonderment.

Usage and register: In modern English, bewondering is rarely used outside poetry, historical writing, or stylistic prose. Editors and dictionaries often treat it as archaic or highly literary; everyday language typically uses wonder, be astonished, or astonishment. When used, it tends to impart a formal or antiquated tone.

Related terms and notes: Bewondering sits among verbs and nouns formed with the prefix be- and the base noun wonder. For most contemporary purposes, preferred substitutes include wonder, astonishment, and awe, while bewonderment remains the more common noun form tied to the same concept.