baffle
UK: ˈbæf.əl | US: ˈbæf.əl
vt. to confuse or perplex someone
vt. to restrain or regulate (a fluid, sound, etc.)
n. a device used to restrain or regulate flow
The word "baffle" originated in the 16th century, derived from the obsolete Scots word "baff" (to disgrace or mock), possibly of French origin. The suffix "-le" was added to form a frequentative verb, implying repeated action. Over time, the meaning shifted from "publicly humiliate" to "confuse or frustrate," likely influenced by the idea of being metaphorically "mocked" by a challenging problem. The engineering sense (e.g., "sound baffle") emerged later, extending the concept of "frustrating" movement or flow.
The complex instructions baffled the new employees.
Scientists were baffled by the unusual experimental results.
The room's acoustic baffles reduced echo effectively.
Her sudden disappearance baffled the investigators.
The maze was designed to baffle escape attempts.