Definition

1. Verb:
   • To cause someone to be so puzzled or confused that they are at a complete loss for what to do, think, or say.
   • To perplex or bewilder someone to the point of speechlessness or inaction.

Usage

• Verb (transitive): The verb "nonplus" is used with a direct object (a person or group of people). It describes the action of causing extreme perplexity.
  • The complex riddle completely nonplussed the contestants.
  • Her sudden and unexpected resignation nonplussed her colleagues.

Examples

• The magician's final trick nonplussed the entire audience; no one could figure out how it was done.
• I was utterly nonplussed by his hostile reaction to my simple suggestion.
• The professor's obscure question nonplussed even the most prepared students in the class.

Advanced Usage

• Past Participle as Adjective: The past participle "nonplussed" is frequently used as an adjective to describe a state of bewilderment.
  • She wore a nonplussed expression when she saw the strange package on her desk.
  • The nonplussed detective stared at the clue, unable to form a theory.

Variants and Related Words

• Nonplussed (adj): Filled with bewilderment; perplexed. (Note: In some modern, chiefly North American usage, it can also colloquially mean unperturbed or unfazed, but the traditional meaning is "perplexed.")
• Nonplussing (adj): Causing bewilderment.

Synonyms

• Baffle: To confuse someone completely.
• Bewilder: To cause someone to become perplexed and confused.
• Perplex: To make someone feel completely puzzled.
• Flummox: (Informal) To perplex greatly; confuse.
• Stump: To be too difficult for someone to solve or answer.

Antonyms

• Enlighten: To give someone greater knowledge or understanding.
• Clarify: To make a statement or situation clear and understandable.
• Reassure: To say or do something to remove someone's doubts or fears.

Verb

1. be a mystery or bewildering to
   • This beats me!
   • Got me--I don't know the answer!
   • a vexing problem
   • This question really stuck me