I. ˈba-fəl transitive verb
( baf·fled ; baf·fling -f(ə-)liŋ)
Etymology: probably alteration of Middle English (Scots) bawchillen to denounce, discredit publicly
Date: 1675
1. : to defeat or check (as a person) by confusing or puzzling : disconcert
2. : to check or break the force or flow of by or as if by a baffle
Synonyms: see frustrate
• baf·fle·ment -fəl-mənt noun
• baf·fler -f(ə-)lər noun
• baf·fling·ly ˈba-fliŋ-lē adverb
II. noun
Date: 1881
: a device (as a plate, wall, or screen) to deflect, check, or regulate flow or passage (as of a fluid, light, or sound)
• baf·fled ˈba-fəld adjective