deslumbrar
“deslumbrar” means “to dazzle” in Spanish. It has 2 different meanings depending on context:
to dazzle
Also: to blind
📝 In Action
El sol me deslumbra cuando conduzco por la tarde.
A2The sun dazzles me when I drive in the afternoon.
Las luces largas del otro coche nos deslumbraron.
B1The high beams from the other car blinded us.
Cierra las cortinas para que el reflejo no te deslumbre.
B2Close the curtains so the reflection doesn't dazzle you.
to impress
Also: to blow away, to fascinate
📝 In Action
Ella deslumbra a todo el mundo con su inteligencia.
A2She dazzles everyone with her intelligence.
El joven pianista deslumbró al público con su talento.
B1The young pianist dazzled the audience with his talent.
No te dejes deslumbrar por el dinero y la fama.
C1Don't let yourself be dazzled by money and fame.
🔄 Conjugations
subjunctive
imperfect
present
indicative
preterite
imperfect
present
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✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: deslumbrar
Question 1 of 3
If someone's high beams are too bright on the road, they are...
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
📚 Etymology▼
From the Spanish prefix 'des-' (meaning reversal or intensity) and the root 'lumbrar' (related to light). It literally means to provide so much light that it overcomes the eyes.
First recorded: 15th century
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is 'deslumbrar' always positive?
Not always. Literally, it can be annoying (like car lights). Figuratively, it usually means 'impressive,' but can imply that someone is being fooled by a bright facade.
What's the difference between 'deslumbrar' and 'cegar'?
'Cegar' means to blind (can be permanent or temporary). 'Deslumbrar' specifically implies it's caused by light or something brilliant.
How do I use it as an adjective?
Use 'deslumbrante.' For example: 'Llevaba un vestido deslumbrante' (She wore a dazzling dress).