baffle

[ˈbæfl]

baffle Definition

• 1. to confuse or perplex someone
• 2. to prevent something from being understood or solved
• 3. a device used to control the flow of a fluid, gas, or sound

Using baffle: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "baffle" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

• Example

  The instructions completely baffled me.

• Example

  The mystery continues to baffle investigators.

• Example

  The noise-cancelling headphones baffle external sounds.

baffle Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for baffle

• bewilder
• confound
• mystify
• perplex
• puzzle

Antonyms for baffle

• clarify
• explain
• illuminate

Idioms Using baffle

• baffle someone with science

  to use technical jargon or complex explanations to confuse or impress someone

  Example

  The salesman tried to baffle me with science, but I didn't understand a word he said.

• baffle the imagination

  to be so extraordinary or amazing that it is difficult to comprehend

  Example

  The beauty of the Grand Canyon boggles the mind and baffles the imagination.

• baffle someone's expectations

  to surprise or confound someone by doing something unexpected

  Example

  The movie's plot twist completely baffled my expectations.

Phrases with baffle

• baffle plate

  a plate or wall used to control the flow of a fluid or gas

  Example

  The baffle plate in the engine helps to regulate the air intake.

• sound baffle

  a device used to reduce or control the reflection or diffusion of sound waves

  Example

  The recording studio has sound baffles on the walls to improve the acoustics.

• oil baffle

  a device used to prevent oil from sloshing around inside an engine

  Example

  The mechanic installed an oil baffle to keep the oil from splashing onto other parts of the engine.

Origins of baffle

originally meaning 'to disgrace' in Scots, from Old French 'bafouer', meaning 'to ridicule'

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Summary: baffle in Brief

The verb 'baffle' [ˈbæfl] means to confuse or perplex someone, or to prevent something from being understood or solved. It can also refer to a device used to control the flow of a fluid, gas, or sound. Examples include 'The instructions completely baffled me.' and 'The noise-cancelling headphones baffle external sounds.' Idioms include 'baffle someone with science,' and 'baffle the imagination.'