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Meaning of puzzling
The primary meaning of the word "puzzling" is something that is difficult to understand or explain.
Etymology of puzzling
The word "puzzling" originated in the mid-17th century, derived from the verb "puzzle", which is likely related to the Middle English word "poselen", meaning "to perplex or confound"
Historically, the word has been used to describe something that is confusing or difficult to understand, and has evolved to include a range of connotations, from mere curiosity to profound bafflement
Synonyms
perplexing
confusing
baffling
mystifying
enigmatic
cryptic
ambiguous
unclear
obscure
vague
uncertain
doubtful
questionable
debatable
problematic
tricky
complex
complicated
intriguing
curious
interesting
thought-provoking
brain-teasing
mind-bending
challenging
difficult
tough
knotty
paradoxical
contradictory
incongruous
inconsistent
inexplicable
unintelligible
indecipherable
mysterious
arcane
abstruse
recondite
enshrined
hidden
concealed
veiled
shrouded
opaque
impenetrable
insoluble
inexplicable
Definitions
- Causing confusion or perplexity because it is difficult to understand or interpret
- Difficult to solve or explain
- Causing someone to feel confused or puzzled
Usage Examples
- The plot of the movie was puzzling, with many unexpected twists and turns
- The professor's explanation of the complex theory was puzzling, and many students left the lecture feeling confused
- The ancient artifact was puzzling, with symbols and markings that no one could decipher