perplexity

noun

pər-ˈplek-sə-tē How to pronounce perplexity (audio)
Definition of perplexitynext
as in confusion
a state of mental uncertainty seeing her perplexity, the teacher stepped in with a helpful hint

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of perplexity The Eagles’ 21-17 Sunday loss to the Denver Broncos contained the perplexity that has in the past provoked fans to picket outside the NovaCare Complex’s gates. — Brooks Kubena, New York Times, 8 Oct. 2025 The thought appears to cross his mind that the condition might account for his own social perplexity. — Gideon Lewis-Kraus, New Yorker, 25 May 2025 This story is one of many that showcase the perplexities that encompass being a mother and a human raising other humans, which is not a small task. — Robyn Mowatt, Essence, 10 Apr. 2025 Doing so nine days since the transfer portal opened on March 24 only adds to the perplexity. — Edward Lee, Baltimore Sun, 2 Apr. 2025 See All Example Sentences for perplexity
Recent Examples of Synonyms for perplexity
  1. confusion
  2. fog
Noun
  • As last week demonstrated, this is a recipe for confusion, uncertainty, and higher borrowing costs.
    — John Cassidy, New Yorker, 3 Aug. 2026
  • The deal acknowledges that even though the two facilities have similar names, the confusion among flyers is minimal.
    — Martin E. Comas, The Orlando Sentinel, 3 Aug. 2026
Definition of confusion
Noun
  • However, once the sun and Mercury enter your sign — and join forces in a Cazimi — the fog begins to clear and a personal decision comes into focus.
    — Valerie Mesa, PEOPLE, 1 Aug. 2026
  • Showers will linger Sunday night into Monday morning, then areas of fog are likely into Monday morning with light winds and generally cloudy skies.
    — Trey Fulbright, CBS News, 30 July 2026
Definition of fog

Browse Nearby Words

perplexities
perplexity
perps
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Cite this Entry

“Perplexity.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/perplexity. Accessed 4 Aug. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on perplexity

Nglish: Translation of perplexity for Spanish Speakers

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