puzzling

1 of 2

adjective

puz·​zling ˈpə-zə-liŋ 

ˈpəz-liŋ

: difficult to understand or solve

puzzling symptoms

puzzlingly adverb

puzzling

2 of 2

present participle of puzzle entry 1

Examples of puzzling in a Sentence

Adjective

The directions are somewhat puzzling.

Recent Examples on the Web

Adjective

The puzzling question has been that, considering the high competition from other sourcing regions in the vicinity, including Vietnam and Bangladesh, and facing relatively higher labor costs, how can Thailand continue to stay in the game? — Mayu Saini, Footwear News, 12 Aug. 2026

McAlister remaining unsigned has been one of the more puzzling offseason storylines for TCU. — Steven Johnson, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 29 July 2026

This is a little puzzling, as this should mean that stars are actively forming around it, but that isn't happening. — Robert Lea, Space.com, 27 July 2026

The wording of the agreement was a bit puzzling, since the Algerian national team held its base camp at the University of Kansas’ facilities in Lawrence — where the deepest connections were forged between the team and a local community. — Pj Green july 14, Kansas City Star, 14 July 2026

Word History

First Known Use

Adjective

circa 1659, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for puzzling

• guzzling