perplex

[ per-pleks ]

verb (used with object)

1. to cause to be puzzled or bewildered over what is not understood or certain; confuse mentally:

   Her strange response perplexed me.

   Synonyms: confound, mystify

2. to make complicated or confused, as a matter or question.

   Synonyms: snarl, tangle

3. to hamper with complications, confusion, or uncertainty.

   Synonyms: bother, annoy, vex

perplex

/ pəˈplɛks /

verb

1. to puzzle; bewilder; confuse
2. to complicate

   to perplex an issue

Other Words From

• per·plex·er noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of perplex¹

First recorded in 1585–95; back formation from perplexed

Word History and Origins

Origin of perplex¹

C15: from obsolete perplex (adj) intricate, from Latin perplexus entangled, from per- (thoroughly) + plectere to entwine

Example Sentences

While “Wicked” doesn’t need to be the same technicolor utopia as “The Wizard of Oz,” the movie often leaves its characters drowned out by perplexing lighting design.

From Salon

This demand presents a perplexing cycle -- energy production often requires water, and water production from desalination now requires significant energy.

From Science Daily

Some lawmakers in Washington DC appeared initially perplexed by Hegseth's appointment to oversee one of the most complex bureaucracies in the world.

From BBC

It left some viewers perplexed, as they questioned what a bloodthirsty plant had to do with Christmas.

From BBC

It is a rivalry that rarely disappoints, which made the first half all the more perplexing.

From BBC

Related Words

• astonish
• astound
• baffle
• befuddle
• bewilder
• complicate
• confound
• dumbfound
• encumber
• mystify
• nonplus
• perturb
• puzzle
• surprise