bafflers
|baf-lers|
🇺🇸
/ˈbæflərz/
🇬🇧
/ˈbæfləz/
(baffler)
one or something that confuses or obstructs
Etymology
'baffler' originates from English, specifically from the verb 'baffle', which probably comes from French 'bafouer' (to mock or scorn).
'baffle' appeared in late 17th-century English with the sense 'to perplex' (possibly influenced by French 'bafouer'); the agentive suffix '-er' was later added to form 'baffler' meaning 'one who baffles' or 'that which baffles'.
Initially related to actions like 'mocking' or 'scorning' in older usage, the sense shifted toward 'to perplex or bewilder', and 'baffler' came to mean 'one or that which causes perplexity'.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
plural of 'baffler': a person or thing that baffles—i.e., that confuses, perplexes, or puzzles others.
The bafflers in the debate left the audience more confused than informed.
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Noun 2
plural of 'baffler' used for devices: elements or fittings (e.g., in engines, speakers, ducts) that obstruct, redirect, or reduce flow/noise.
The silencers were fitted with bafflers to reduce engine noise.
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Last updated: 2025/12/30 17:35