nonplus

[non-pluhs]

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.

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

/ nɒnˈplʌs /

verb

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

   he was nonplussed by the sudden announcement

noun

1. a state of utter perplexity prohibiting action or speech

Usage

See nonplussed ( def. ).

Word History and Origins

Origin of nonplus¹

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

Word History and Origins

Origin of nonplus¹

C16: from Latin nōn plūs no further (that is, nothing further can be said or done)

Example Sentences

Democrats are also suddenly nonplussed about lapsing food-stamp benefits or government subsidized preschool.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

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

Read more on 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.

Read more on Salon

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

Read more on Los Angeles Times

I was further nonplussed by a bizarre incident at a large end-of-summer meet.

Read more on Salon

Related Words

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