perplexity

[ per-plek-si-tee ]

noun

, plural per·plex·i·ties.

1. the state of being perplexed; perplexed; confusion; uncertainty.
2. something that perplexes:

   a case plagued with perplexities.

3. a tangled, involved, or confused condition or situation.

perplexity

/ pəˈplɛksɪtɪ /

noun

1. the state of being perplexed
2. the state of being intricate or complicated
3. something that perplexes

Word History and Origins

Origin of perplexity¹

First recorded in 1350–1400; Middle English perplexite, from Old French, from Late Latin perplexitās, from Latin perplex(us) ( perplexed ) + -itās -ity

Example Sentences

The performances, too, are more likenesses than full characterizations, which, admittedly, is wholly in keeping with the perplexities being dramatized.

From Los Angeles Times

The authors expressed perplexity about why excess deaths actually rose in 2021, despite the arrival of the vaccines and the implementation of social anti-pandemic measures, and remained elevated the following year.

From Los Angeles Times

He said he felt some “perplexity” about how it was released and said he understood Israel’s anger.

From Seattle Times

The results challenge a so-called Darwinian paradox that expresses a sense of perplexity about the prevalence of same-sex sexual behaviors in many species.

From Scientific American

“It seems that the sea was calm,” Francis said, seemingly expressing perplexity that such a grave tragedy could happen in those conditions.

From Seattle Times

Related Words

• bewilderment
• puzzlement