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Definitions

baffled

[baf-uhld] / ˈbæf əld /


ADJECTIVE
befuddled
Synonyms
Antonyms










ADJECTIVE
stuck
Synonyms
Antonyms
STRONG


Frequently Asked Questions

What is another word for baffled?
Baffled means extremely or completely puzzled or confused. Perhaps the closest synonym is stumped, which is used to describe someone who has no idea what the answer or solution is or what their next action should be—someone who simply cannot figure it out despite having tried their hardest. Synonyms for baffled that are similarly intense include perplexed, confounded, bewildered, and befuddled. Less commonly, baffled is used to mean the same thing as thwarted. Similar words include foiled, defeated, and the more specific sense of frustrated.
What is the opposite (antonym) of baffled?
Baffled doesn’t really have a direct opposite in the form of an adjective. However, someone who was baffled may eventually figure out the problem or find the answer to the question. In this way, they fully understand or see clearly—they have a clear-eyed view of the problem, question, or situation. The opposite of baffled in the sense of thwarted is successful.
How do you use baffled in a sentence?
Baffled is most commonly used in the context of things that are difficult or impossible to figure out or understand. Here are some examples of baffled in a sentence:
  • I’m completely baffled. Why would anyone have done this?
  • His explanation left us all baffled.
  • Baffled investigators have been unable to identify a single suspect.

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

See Examples For:

Since history's most powerful telescope went online in 2022, it has been spotting many extremely bright cosmic objects dubbed "little red dots" in the early universe that have baffled scientists.

From Barron's Aug. 12, 2026

When officers finally acted, they pulled only half the hose out, leaving the rest coiled inside the cabinet, and stood there baffled as to why the water wouldn’t flow.

From Slate Aug. 11, 2026

“I understand that I have value as a performer, but I still don’t get how I got this part,” he says, sounding a bit baffled.

From Los Angeles Times Aug. 6, 2026

“Today” co-anchor Savannah Guthrie renewed her plea for information regarding her 84-year-old mother, Nancy Guthrie, whose disappearance nearly six months ago has baffled investigators and left her family searching for answers.

From The Wall Street Journal Jul. 27, 2026

“What the—” James looked baffled for only a moment before the expression dissolved into seriousness.

From "Book Scavenger" by Jennifer Chambliss Bertman




Vocabulary lists containing baffled


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