puzzlement

[ puhz-uhl-muhnt ]

noun

1. the state of being puzzled; perplexity.
2. something puzzling. puzzling.

ˈpuzzlement

/ ˈpʌzəlmənt /

noun

1. the state or condition of being puzzled; perplexity

Word History and Origins

Origin of puzzlement¹

First recorded in 1815–25; puzzle + -ment

Example Sentences

A common reaction to stories of athlete mental health struggles is puzzlement.

From Time

Elation turned to puzzlement as six infected nuns who received infusions all died.

From The Daily Beast

The inappropriate gift to the queen, an iPod loaded with 40 show tunes, provoked puzzlement.

From The Daily Beast

In the aftermath, the euphoria of election night gave way to depression, anxiety, and genuine puzzlement.

From The Daily Beast

In his old age he became an ardent spiritualist, much to my surprise and puzzlement, and he died in that faith.

From Project Gutenberg

Scientists began giving serious consideration to the unusual phenomenon, pottering around in the pits, wearing airs of puzzlement.

From Project Gutenberg

Much to the speaker's surprise, there followed an interval of silence, and his puzzlement showed in the knitting of his brows.

From Project Gutenberg

Mel knowed; a state of puzzlement or even a good mad's a mighty sight better than bein' all harrowed up and grief-stricken.

From Project Gutenberg

I was looked upon with some doubt, and scanned from hurrying cars with puzzlement.

From Project Gutenberg

Related Words

• bewilderment
• perplexity