perplexity

/pərˈplɛksədi/

Other forms: perplexities

Perplexity is confusion that results from something being complicated. The instruction manuals for computer components might put a look of perplexity on your face.

If you think of the word complexity — which is when something is really intricate or involves lots of complicated parts — it might help you remember that perplexity is the state that results from complexity. You might experience perplexity at the complexity of the plays your coach has diagrammed, or perplexity at the complicated menu options at an Indian restaurant.

Definitions of perplexity

1. noun

   trouble or confusion resulting from complexity
   types:

   closed book, enigma, mystery, secret

   something that baffles understanding and cannot be explained

   maze, snarl, tangle

   something jumbled or confused

   dilemma, quandary

   state of uncertainty or perplexity especially as requiring a choice between equally unfavorable options

   double bind

   (psychology) an unresolvable dilemma; situation in which a person receives contradictory messages from a person who is very powerful

   type of:

   confusedness, confusion, disarray, mental confusion, muddiness

   a mental state characterized by a lack of clear and orderly thought and behavior