baffling

1 of 2

adjective

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

baffling

2 of 2

present participle of baffle entry 1

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.
Adjective
Bugs Bunny being in the real world is frankly not as baffling as Michael Jordan’s detour into minor-league baseball. — James Grebey, Vulture, 28 Aug. 2026 The episode submissions this year are a little baffling, often not reflecting the series’ best work. — Glenn Whipp, Los Angeles Times, 21 Aug. 2026 Lee kept at him, and along the way, began to find Lifeson’s interview comments increasingly baffling. — Brian Hiatt, Rolling Stone, 14 Aug. 2026 Webb found her response baffling, as word of the attack had spread rapidly among staff and the footage was stored on the facility’s own security system. — Paige Pfleger, ProPublica, 12 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for baffling

Word History

First Known Use

Adjective

1783, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of baffling was in 1783

Browse Nearby Words

baffler
baffling
baffling wind
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Baffling.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/baffling. Accessed 1 Sep. 2026.

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Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for baffling

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