puzzling
adjective
puz·zling
ˈpə-zə-liŋ 
ˈpəz-liŋ
: difficult to understand or solve
puzzling symptoms
puzzlingly
adverb
Examples of puzzling in a Sentence
The directions are somewhat puzzling.
Recent Examples on the Web
But in 1997, theorists identified a puzzling exception: one particular mode appeared out of sync, an inconsistency that couldn't be explained by existing models.
—
Sharmila Kuthunur, Space.com, 30 Apr. 2025
He’s pressed into service helping a detective (Salazar, Undone, Parenthood) solve her most puzzling cases.
—Rick Porter, HollywoodReporter, 22 Apr. 2025
In the early 2000s, marine biologists first noticed a puzzling pattern.
—Scott Travers, Forbes.com, 26 Apr. 2025
The sad story of Alex Verdugo was one of the most puzzling dramas of the MLB offseason.
—Nicholas Creel, MSNBC Newsweek, 19 Apr. 2025
See All Example Sentences for puzzling
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to
show current usage.
Read More
Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors.
Send us feedback.
Sharmila Kuthunur, Space.com, 30 Apr. 2025
He’s pressed into service helping a detective (Salazar, Undone, Parenthood) solve her most puzzling cases.
—Rick Porter, HollywoodReporter, 22 Apr. 2025
In the early 2000s, marine biologists first noticed a puzzling pattern.
—Scott Travers, Forbes.com, 26 Apr. 2025
The sad story of Alex Verdugo was one of the most puzzling dramas of the MLB offseason.
—Nicholas Creel, MSNBC Newsweek, 19 Apr. 2025
See All Example Sentences for puzzling
Cite this Entry
“Puzzling.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/puzzling. Accessed 4 Jun. 2025.
Copy CitationLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
Share