adjective

flustered

/ˈflʌstərd/ · say it: FLUS·terd

agitated and confused

In Emotions & Moods

In more detail

1. (adjective) confused and anxious, often because of pressure or embarrassment

2. (adjective) agitated or disturbed in manner or appearance

Examples

1. She felt flustered when all her classmates stared at her during the presentation.
2. The flustered waiter dropped several plates while rushing to serve the large party.

How to use flustered

Flustered describes a state of nervous confusion or agitation, typically temporary and caused by unexpected pressure, embarrassment, or distraction. It implies both emotional and often physical signs of discomposure—flushed cheeks, fumbling speech, or scattered thoughts. Unlike calm or composed, it emphasizes visible signs of distress rather than internal stability.

Common phrases

get flustered
look flustered
seem flustered
flustered appearance
easily flustered

Synonyms

flushed · disconcerted · rattled · perturbed · agitated

Opposites

calm · composed · unperturbed

Word family

fluster (verb) · flusteredly (adverb)

A common mistake

Learners sometimes confuse flustered with blushed or flushed (reddening of the face), though flustered can include facial redness as a symptom of a broader state of anxiety.

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