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flummox

verb

/ˈflʌməks/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of flummox

To confuse, perplex or baffle someone, making them unsure of how to proceed or react.
"The complexity of the calculus problem would flummox even the brightest students."

Detailed meaning of flummox

The word is often used to describe a situation or statement that is confusing, complicated or difficult to understand, that makes someone feel uncertain or bewildered. It can also be used to describe a person who is bewildered, at a loss, or nonplussed. The term can be used in a variety of situations, from a tricky math problem to a complex legal case, to a social situation that is difficult to navigate. It can also be used to describe the reaction of a person who is presented with an unexpected or difficult situation. It is often used in a casual or informal setting, to express the feeling of being puzzled or stumped. The word has a humorous and lighthearted tone to it, but it still conveys the sense of confusion or perplexity in a situation.

Example sentences containing flummox

1. Complex equations often flummox students, leaving them scratching their heads.
2. Riddles are designed to flummox, challenging the mind to untangle mysteries.
3. Abstract art can flummox viewers, eliciting a wide array of interpretations.
4. Cryptic clues in the treasure hunt flummox even the most adept problem solvers.
5. Magic tricks skillfully executed flummox audiences with awe and wonder.
6. The detective's cryptic hints are meant to flummox, veiling the truth artfully.

History and etymology of flummox

The verb 'flummox' has a somewhat mysterious etymology, and its exact origins are not entirely clear. It is believed to be of British origin and may have emerged in the 19th century. One theory suggests that it could be related to the word 'flummock,' which was a dialectal term used in some parts of England to describe something messy or untidy. Another theory proposes that it might be an alteration of the word 'hummock,' which refers to a small, rounded hill or mound. Regardless of its precise origin, 'flummox' has come to signify the act of confusing, perplexing, or baffling someone, leaving them unsure of how to proceed or react. Its whimsical sound and playful structure contribute to its effectiveness in describing moments of bewilderment or uncertainty.

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Further usage examples of flummox

1. In the maze of mirrors, reflections flummox those who seek an escape route.
2. Twists and turns in complex novels flummox readers, enhancing the intrigue.
3. Illusions in the haunted house flummox guests, casting doubt on reality.
4. Hidden meanings in the poet's verses flummox readers, sparking deep thought.
5. Enigmatic puzzles in the game flummox players, testing their mental acumen.
6. When you flummox the audience with too much technical jargon, they lose interest.
7. Even the seasoned detectives were flummoxed by the puzzling evidence at the crime scene.
8. The magician's astounding tricks always manage to flummox the crowd.
9. Trying to solve the Rubik's cube for the first time would flummox most people.
10. The unexpected twist in the story flummoxed the readers.
11. The intricate details of the painting flummoxed the art critics.
12. To flummox the opponent, the chess player made an unusual move.
13. Sometimes, tax forms flummox even the most experienced accountants.
14. Unexpected questions during a presentation can flummox the speaker.
15. The football team used an unusual formation to flummox their opponents.
16. Many people get flummoxed when asked to solve complex riddles.
17. The advanced level of the physics exam was designed to flummox the unprepared students.
18. The escape room was created to flummox and challenge the participants.
19. If you flummox the witness, you may not get the information you need.
20. The hidden clues in the video game were meant to flummox the players.
21. Being asked to speak in public can flummox a lot of people.
22. The fast-paced changes in the tech world can flummox even the most tech-savvy individuals.
23. The logic puzzle continued to flummox the team, even after hours of trying to solve it.
24. To flummox the enemy, the general employed a surprising strategy.