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Definition of perplexing - 2 dictionary results

per⋅plex

  [per-pleks]
Use perplexing in a Sentence
–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.
2. to make complicated or confused, as a matter or question.
3. to hamper with complications, confusion, or uncertainty.
Origin:
1585–95; back formation from perplexed

Related forms:
per⋅plex⋅er, noun
per⋅plex⋅ing⋅ly, adverb

Synonyms:
1. mystify, confound. 2. tangle, snarl. 3. vex, annoy, bother.
Dictionary.com Unabridged
Based on the Random House Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2009.
Cite This Source Link To perplexing
per·plex   (pər-plěks')   
tr.v.   per·plexed, per·plex·ing, per·plex·es

  1. To confuse or trouble with uncertainty or doubt. See Synonyms at puzzle.

  2. To make confusedly intricate; complicate.


[Back-formation from Middle English perplexed, puzzled; see perplexed.]
per·plex'ing·ly adv.
The American Heritage® Dictionary of the English Language, Fourth Edition
Copyright © 2009 by Houghton Mifflin Company.
Published by Houghton Mifflin Company. All rights reserved.
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