baffle

¹baf·fle

transitive verb \ˈba-fəl\

baf·fled baf·fling \-f(ə-)liŋ\

Definition of BAFFLE

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 Synonym Discussion at frustrate

Rhymes with BAFFLE

raffle, snaffle

²baffle

noun

Definition of BAFFLE

: a device (as a plate, wall, or screen) to deflect, check, or regulate flow or passage (as of a fluid, light, or sound)

— baf·fled \ˈba-fəld\ adjective

First Known Use of BAFFLE

1881

Other Audio Recording Terms

dub, fidelity, transcription, treble

Rhymes with BAFFLE

raffle, snaffle