baffle
1 of 2verb/ˈbæ.fəl/
Forms:baffles,baffling,baffled,baffled
1
to confuse someone by making something difficult to understand or explain
transitive- The complex instructions on the assembly manual baffled the new employees.
- The scientific concepts presented in the lecture baffled the students.
- The strange behavior of the machine baffled the engineers.
- The sudden disappearance of the evidence baffled the investigators.
- The cryptic message left by the suspect baffled the detectives.
2
to control or direct the flow of a fluid, sound, or similar substance in a particular way
transitive- The engineer used a valve to baffle the flow of water through the pipes.
- The soundproof walls baffled the noise, making the room completely silent.
- A filter was placed to baffle the air and prevent dust from entering the room.
- The exhaust system baffled the sound, reducing the engine noise significantly.
- The dam baffled the river’s flow, controlling the water levels during the storm.
Synonyms:
3
to prevent someone from achieving their goal or to disrupt their plans
transitive- The unexpected storm baffled our plans for the outdoor event.
- His quick thinking baffled the robber’s attempt to escape.
- The constant technical issues baffled their efforts to finish the project on time.
- The new regulations baffled the company's expansion efforts.
- The confusing instructions baffled his attempt to assemble the furniture.