baffling

adjective

baf·​fling ˈba-f(ə-)liŋ How to pronounce baffling (audio)
: extremely confusing or difficult to understand
a baffling decision
found the directions utterly baffling
bafflingly adverb
a bafflingly complex explanation

Examples of baffling in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The claim that chess is a form of gambling was baffling, according to every chess player NPR spoke to, including Herat resident Jarallah Badghisi. Diaa Hadid, NPR, 17 June 2025 Some baffling decisions were made that fundamentally alter not only her characterization and arc, but the very nature of the story itself. Erik Kain, Forbes.com, 29 May 2025 These new elements are neither remarkable nor unwelcome, but devoting time to them at the expense of Stitch is an utterly baffling decision. Barry Levitt, Time, 21 May 2025 Even the acres of baffling dialogue are delivered swiftly. Jordan Hoffman, EW.com, 14 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for baffling

Word History

First Known Use

1783, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of baffling was in 1783

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Cite this Entry

“Baffling.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/baffling. Accessed 30 Jun. 2025.

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