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View synonyms for

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

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

    Synonyms: , ,


perplex

/ əˈɛ /

verb

  1. to puzzle; bewilder; confuse

  2. to complicate

    to perplex an issue

“Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged” 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012
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Other Word Forms

  • perplexer noun
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Word History and Origins

Origin of perplex1

First recorded in 1585–95; back formation from perplexed
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Word History and Origins

Origin of perplex1

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

Examples have not been reviewed.

“ perplexes me is that despite the plant being known for its stinky smell, it also produces several sweet-smelling chemicals.”

From

The ruling followed a tense hearing last week during which Wilson grilled Keenan, appearing increasingly perplexed at the government’s logic in offering Kirk a deal.

From

As we sat in her apartment, I was perplexed by the airy bites, which seemed like little nuggets of fried nothingness.

From

In court Monday, Wilson grilled Keenan, appearing increasingly perplexed at the government’s logic in offering Kirk a deal.

From

Several researchers also said that they found Kennedy’s insistence that autism stems from exposure to an undetermined environmental source perplexing.

From

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Perpignanperplexed