# boggling

/ˈbɑɡəɫɪŋ/ (US) · /bˈɒɡlɪŋ/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/boggling
Updated: 2026-05-11

## Definition

describing something that is so strange, large, or complex that your mind cannot easily understand it.

For teachers: overwhelming the mental capacity to comprehend or process due to sheer scale, complexity, or absurdity. Often used in the compound 'mind-boggling'.

## Examples

- The size of the universe is truly boggling.
- The sheer amount of data generated by the new telescope is boggling for even the most advanced computers.
- Faced with a boggling array of conflicting evidence, the jury struggled to reach a unanimous verdict after three days of deliberation.

## Usage notes

- Primarily functions as a participial adjective; frequently paired with 'mind' to form the compound 'mind-boggling'.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.