noun
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the state of being perplexed
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the state of being intricate or complicated
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something that perplexes
Etymology
Origin of perplexity
First recorded in 1350–1400; Middle English perplexite, from Old French, from Late Latin perplexitās, from Latin perplex(us) ( perplexed ) + -itās -ity
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.
“From someone who’s been here,” she finished simply, not understanding my perplexity.
From Literature
In some cases, such as the dollar, price action has followed the usual playbook but the real perplexity lies in U.S.
Most amusing is the creators’ sincere perplexity at their creations being taken seriously.
The mainstream press expressed perplexity at his embrace of an Irish cultural identity "despite being born and raised in England".
From BBC
The performances, too, are more likenesses than full characterizations, which, admittedly, is wholly in keeping with the perplexities being dramatized.
From Los Angeles Times
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
