perplex


per·plex

verb \pər-ˈpleks\

Definition of PERPLEX

transitive verb
1
: to make unable to grasp something clearly or to think logically and decisively about something <her attitude perplexes me> <a perplexing problem>
2
: to make intricate or involved : complicate

Examples of PERPLEX

  1. Questions about the meaning of life have always perplexed humankind.
  2. <let's not perplex the issue further with irrelevant concerns>

Origin of PERPLEX

obsolete perplex, adjective, involved, perplexed, from Latin perplexus, from per- thoroughly + plexus involved, from past participle of plectere to braid, twine — more at per-, ply
First Known Use: 1593

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