<p><strong>Verb (used with object):</strong></p><ul><li>to mix up in a confused or bungling manner; jumble.</li><li>to cause to become mentally confused.</li><li>to cause to become confused or stupid with or as if with an intoxicating drink.</li><li>to make muddy or turbid, as water.</li><li>to mix, crush, or mash (an ingredient) into a drink, especially with a muddler.</li><li>to mix or stir (a cocktail, chocolate, etc.).</li><li>to smooth (clay) by rubbing it on glass.</li></ul><p><strong>Noun:</strong></p><ul><li>the state or condition of being muddled, especially a confused mental state.</li><li>a confused, disordered, or embarrassing condition; mess.</li></ul><p><strong>Verb Phrase:</strong></p><ul><li>to achieve a certain degree of success but without much skill, polish, experience, or direction: None of us knew much about staging a variety show, so we just had to muddle through.</li></ul>