confound

/kənˈfaʊnd/verb

To puzzle or baffle someone completely.

Example sentences

“The sudden change of rules confounded even the referees.”
“Her quick recovery confounded the doctors' predictions.”

Survives in mild old oaths ('confound it!') and in statistics, where a confounding variable distorts results.

Related words

confrontTo face someone or something directly, especially in a challenging or hostile way.conformTo behave the way other people expect, especially because of social pressure; to follow accepted patterns.congenialSharing similar tastes, interests, or temperament; pleasant to be around.confidentFeeling certain about something or sure of your own abilities.conjectureAn opinion or conclusion based on guesswork rather than proof.confideTo place your trust in someone, especially by sharing private matters with them.