Meaning & Definition of word "Disorientation"
Disorientation
/ˌdɪsɔːrɪˈɛnteɪʃən/
noun:
- 1. a state of mental confusion or inability to recognize one's surroundings, often caused by illness, intoxication, or stressful situations.
- Example: After the long flight, I experienced a sense of disorientation as I tried to adjust to the new time zone.
- 2. the loss of one's sense of direction or positioning in space.
- Example: The labyrinthine hallways of the old castle led to a feeling of disorientation among the visitors.
- 3. a state of being confused about one’s identity or situation in life.
- Example: After losing his job, he felt a deep disorientation regarding his future and his place in the world.
Etymology
●From the prefix 'dis-' meaning 'opposite of' and 'orientation' which comes from the Latin 'orientare' meaning 'to rise' or 'to set' (as in direction).
Common Phrases and Expressions
state of disorientation:
Refers to a condition where someone feels confused or unsure of their surroundings.
disorientation due to fatigue:
This phrase indicates confusion primarily caused by extreme tiredness.
Related Words
orientation:
The awareness of someone's position in relation to their surroundings.
confusion:
A lack of clarity or certainty about something.
Slang Meanings of disorientation
Meaning: Feeling lost or out of it.
● Example Sentence: After pulling an all-nighter, I was totally disoriented in class.
Meaning: Not knowing where you're at mentally or physically.
● Example Sentence: After finishing that marathon, I felt so disoriented, like I didn't know where I was.