étourdir

Étourdir is a French verb that translates to "to stun," "to daze," or "to deafen" in English. It can be used in both literal and figurative senses.

Literally, étourdir can describe the act of making someone or something unconscious or disoriented through a blow or sudden shock. For example, a strong impact might étourdir a person, causing them to temporarily lose consciousness or become dizzy. Similarly, loud noises can étourdir someone, overwhelming their senses and making them feel disoriented.

Figuratively, étourdir refers to overwhelming someone with too much information, stimulation, or emotion. One might be étourdi by a cascade of events, a complex explanation, or an intense sensory experience. It can also describe being excessively proud or conceited, to the point where one's judgment is impaired. A person who is étourdi by success might act rashly or foolishly due to their inflated ego. The feeling of being overwhelmed or dazed by something unexpected or intense is also conveyed by this verb.