mystify

verb

ˈmi-stə-ˌfī How to pronounce mystify (audio)
Definition of mystifynext
as in to perplex
to throw into a state of mental uncertainty we were mystified by the sudden changes in the tax code

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Example Sentences

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.
Recent Examples of mystify The longevity industry profits from mystifying the obvious, but Emanuel largely dispenses with pretense. — Dhruv Khullar, New Yorker, 29 June 2026 After getting up 28 shots against Australia and 32 against Paraguay, Turkey’s coach was mystified by the results. — Joseph Dycus, Mercury News, 20 June 2026 So far, this election has been light on the specifics, but the state faces real problems — from a failing healthcare system to gas prices that literally mystify even lawmakers. — Los Angeles Times, 30 May 2026 Related Stories The murders had mystified police and haunted the victims’ families for more than three decades. — Addie Morfoot, Variety, 23 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for mystify
Recent Examples of Synonyms for mystify
  1. perplex
  2. confuse
  3. bewilder
  4. baffle
  5. puzzle
  6. befuddle
Verb
  • Workers at Doherty Staffing Solutions were perplexed when strangers started calling the office in response to recruitment texts — texts the firm never sent.
    — Bill Lukitsch, Boston Herald, 13 July 2026
  • The Wiener Kitchen diners weren’t the only Kansas Citians perplexed by this description.
    — Katelyn Umholtz, Kansas City Star, 10 July 2026
Definition of perplex
Verb
  • It’s labeled in their inventory so it’s not confused for an original, but adds their own touch to their trove.
    — Jacqui Palumbo, CNN Money, 3 Aug. 2026
  • Physicians are alarmed, stressing that FDA licensing is crucial for guiding patients, as this decision risks confusing consumers about regulated versus unregulated treatments.
    — Joshua P. Cohen, Forbes.com, 2 Aug. 2026
Definition of confuse
Verb
  • Republicans use metaphor to turn unpopular policies into perky catchphrases, leaving Democrats bewildered.
    — Richard Yanowitch, Mercury News, 29 July 2026
  • In Texas, Spain bewildered France, neutralising what has looked like the most formidable attack in the tournament.
    — Sukhman Singh, New York Times, 18 July 2026
Definition of bewilder
Verb
  • The news conference that followed left some economists baffled.
    — Matt Peterson, CNBC, 30 July 2026
  • Another passerby was baffled by how empty the corner now looks.
    — ABC News, ABC News, 29 July 2026
Definition of baffle
Verb
  • The experimental projections, generated from archival Wagner imagery and historical scenes including late former Chancellor Helmut Kohl and the 9/11 attacks, formed a swirling collage that left many spectators puzzled and restless.
    — Los Angeles Times, Los Angeles Times, 2 Aug. 2026
  • Like many oil market observers, I have been puzzled by the relatively low level of oil prices given what has been one of the largest supply disruptions in history.
    — Michael Lynch, Forbes.com, 31 July 2026
Definition of puzzle
Verb
  • The invisible present befuddles each generation in every age.
    — Literary Hub, Literary Hub, 15 July 2026
  • The 1,000-person guest list was impressive, expansive and, occasionally, befuddling.
    — Zoe Sottile, CNN Money, 4 July 2026
Definition of befuddle

Browse Nearby Words

mystifies
mystify
mystifying
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Cite this Entry

“Mystify.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/mystify. Accessed 5 Aug. 2026.

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Nglish: Translation of mystify for Spanish Speakers

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