perplexing Meaning, Definition & Usage

  1. verb be a mystery or bewildering to
    mystify; perplex; bewilder; get; beat; puzzle; pose; amaze; vex; baffle; flummox; stick; stupefy; gravel; nonplus; dumbfound.
    • This beats me!
    • Got me--I don't know the answer!
    • a vexing problem
    • This question really stuck me
  2. verb make more complicated
    complicate; perplex.
    • There was a new development that complicated the matter
  3. adjective satellite lacking clarity of meaning; causing confusion or perplexity
    puzzling; confusing.
    • sent confusing signals to Iraq
    • perplexing to someone who knew nothing about it
    • a puzzling statement

WordNet


Per*plex"ing adjective
Definitions
  1. Embarrassing; puzzling; troublesome. "Perplexing thoughts." Milton.

Webster 1913