baffle

/ˈba-fəl/

probably alteration of Middle English (Scots) bawchillen to denounce, discredit publicly

verb

  1. to defeat or check (someone) by confusing or puzzling : to confuse or frustrate completely : disconcert

  2. to check or break the force or flow of by or as if by a baffle

Her behavior baffled her parents.

frustrate thwart foil baffle balk mean to check or defeat another's plan or block achievement of a goal. frustrate implies making vain or ineffectual all efforts however vigorous or persistent. thwart suggests frustration or checking by crossing or opposing.

noun

  1. a device (such as a plate, wall, or screen) to deflect, check, or regulate flow or passage (as of a fluid, light, or sound)