perplex
verb (used with object)
to cause to be puzzled or bewildered over what is not understood or certain; confuse mentally.
perplexes
-
present tense formof perplex (3rd person singular).present tense
Used to describe things happening now or regularly.
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.
“What perplexes me is that despite the plant being known for its stinky smell, it also produces several sweet-smelling chemicals.”
From Salon ● May 27, 2025
“It’s one of the questions that perplexes me.”
From Slate ● Oct. 30, 2022
This is the category that most perplexes analysts.
From Seattle Times ● May 16, 2021
Inside, a section of kitchen floor that is clear plexiglass instead of wood perplexes me.
From Washington Post ● Mar. 14, 2019
But I confess that he perplexes me a little and that I am afraid of saying something awkward.
From The Secret of Sarek by Maurice Leblanc
