baffle

¹baf·fle

verb \ˈba-fəl\

baf·fledbaf·fling\-f(ə-)liŋ\

Definition of BAFFLE

transitive verb

1

: to defeat or check (as a person) by confusing or puzzling : disconcert

2

: to check or break the force or flow of by or as if by a baffle

— baf·fle·ment \-fəl-mənt\ noun

— baf·fler \-f(ə-)lər\ noun

— baf·fling·ly \ˈba-fliŋ-lē\ adverb

Examples of BAFFLE

1. I was baffled by many of the scientific terms used in the article.
2. <the language barrier baffled everyone and discouraged us from attempting another teleconference>

Origin of BAFFLE

probably alteration of Middle English (Scots) bawchillen to denounce, discredit publicly

First Known Use: 1675

Related to BAFFLE

Synonyms: frustrate, balk, beat, checkmate, discomfit, foil, thwart

Antonyms: advance, cultivate, encourage, forward, foster, further, nurture, promote

Related Words: bar, block, clog, encumber, fetter, hamper, handicap, hinder, hobble, hold back, impede, inhibit, interfere (with), manacle, obstruct, shackle, tie up, trammel; arrest, check, halt, set back, short-circuit, stall, stop; avert, forestall, obviate, preclude, prevent; negate, neutralize, nullify; counteract, offset; conquer, defeat, overcome

Near Antonyms: abet, aid, assist; ease, facilitate, smooth

see all synonyms and antonyms

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See Synonym Discussion at frustrate

Rhymes with BAFFLE

raffle, snaffle