nonplus

American  

[non-pluhs] / nɒnˈplʌs /

verb (used with object)

nonplussed, nonplused, nonplussing, nonplusing

1. to render utterly perplexed by something unexpected; puzzle completely.

   He nonplussed his questioners by answering in riddles.

   Synonyms:

   disconcert, confound, confuse, perplex

2. to cause to feel indifferent, calm, or unexcited.

   The shoppers were entirely nonplussed by the disturbance in the street, continuing to gaze at window displays as they strolled along.

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noun

1. a state of utter perplexity.

   When the protagonist's wife suddenly disappears, he's at a nonplus and fights with two different feelings.

nonplus British  

/ nɒnˈplʌs /

verb

1. (tr) to put at a loss; confound

   he was nonplussed by the sudden announcement

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noun

1. a state of utter perplexity prohibiting action or speech

Usage

See nonplussed ( def. ).

Etymology

Origin of nonplus

First recorded in 1575–85; (noun) from Latin nōn plūs literally, “not more, no further,” that is, a state in which nothing more can be done

Example Sentences

Durant appeared nonplussed by the spat, while admitting that he had deliberately taken a combative approach into the game.

From Barron's

I was nonplussed at a 1992 symposium in Vienna when a hall filled with international art world denizens went absolutely wild, cheering and stomping when Kelley was introduced on a panel.

From Los Angeles Times

Ford, who died of natural causes at age 93 in 2006, was said to be nonplussed by Moore’s attempt on his life.

From Los Angeles Times

"It's hard for me to believe that targets and timing and weapons would not have been classified," he told Gabbard, who remained nonplussed.

From Salon

Once Short was gone, Fallon said, “You never kiss me like that anymore,” to a nonplussed Michaels.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• astonish
• astound
• baffle
• bewilder
• daze
• disconcert
• dumbfound
• faze
• fluster
• mystify