muddling

transitive verb muddled, muddling

1. to mix up in a confused manner; jumble; bungle
2. to mix or stir (a drink, etc.)
3. to make (water, etc.) turbid
4. to confuse mentally; befuddle, as with alcoholic liquor
5. to confuse (the brain, mind, etc.); befog

Origin: < mud + -le

intransitive verb

noun

1. a confused or disordered condition; mess, jumble, etc.
2. mental confusion