puzzled
UK: ˈpʌzld | US: ˈpʌzld
adj. confused or uncertain about something
adj. perplexed or unable to understand
The word "puzzle" originated in the late 16th century, possibly derived from the verb "pose" (to perplex) with an unclear influence, perhaps from "puzzel" (an archaic term for a bewildered person). The suffix "-ed" transforms it into an adjective, indicating a state of confusion. The morpheme "puzzle" retains its core meaning of causing bewilderment, while "-ed" marks it as a descriptive past participle.
She looked puzzled when she saw the complicated math problem.
The detective was puzzled by the mysterious clues at the crime scene.
His sudden disappearance left everyone puzzled.
The students were puzzled by the teacher's ambiguous instructions.
I'm still puzzled about how the magician performed that trick.