baffles crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Stumped by "baffles"? You've come to the right place! We've compiled a comprehensive list of solutions and explanations to help you conquer your crossword puzzle. Find your answer quickly, no matter the length.
Solutions for "baffles crossword clue" by Letter Count
6 Letters
STUMPS: To present someone with a problem or question that is too difficult to solve or answer.
FLOORS: Informally, to completely overwhelm or confuse someone, leaving them at a loss.
7 Letters
PUZZLES: To cause someone to feel confused because they cannot understand or explain something.
8 Letters
CONFUSES: To make someone unable to think clearly or understand something.
9 Letters
MYSTIFIES: To utterly bewilder or perplex someone, often involving a sense of mystery.
PERPLEXES: To cause someone to feel completely baffled, often due to complexity or difficulty.
More About "baffles crossword clue"
"Baffles" in a crossword context typically refers to the act of confusing, perplexing, or stumping someone. It's a common clue that draws on a range of synonyms related to mental bewilderment or being at a loss for understanding. The difficulty often lies in matching the exact nuance or length required by the puzzle. Common answers revolve around words that imply a state of mental blockage or inability to comprehend.
When you encounter "baffles" as a clue, consider the context of the puzzle. Is it a general knowledge crossword, a cryptic one, or perhaps a themed puzzle? The nature of the crossword can sometimes hint at whether you need a straightforward synonym or a more oblique, lateral-thinking answer. Always double-check the letter count and any crossing letters you've already filled in.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Check Letter Count First: Always verify the number of letters for the answer. This is the most crucial step as it immediately narrows down possibilities for "baffles" and any other clue.
- Look at Crossing Letters: Use any letters already filled in from intersecting words. These can instantly confirm or rule out potential answers for "baffles".
- Consider Synonyms and Antonyms: "Baffles" can have many synonyms. Brainstorm words that mean to confuse, puzzle, or mislead. For some clues, thinking of the opposite meaning and then finding its antonym can also be a surprising route to the solution.
- Think About Wordplay (for cryptic puzzles): If it's a cryptic crossword, "baffles" might not literally mean confusion. It could indicate a need to rearrange letters, use a homophone, or even point to a physical baffle (like a screen or a dam).
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I find the right length for "baffles crossword clue"?
Crossword clues often have multiple answers depending on the puzzle's specific word count. Look at the number of empty squares in your puzzle for the exact length. Our page provides answers grouped by letter count.
What's the difference between "baffles" and "perplexes" in crosswords?
Both "baffles" and "perplexes" imply confusion, but "baffles" can suggest a more profound, almost unsolveable mystery, while "perplexes" often implies a complex entanglement that might eventually be untangled. In crosswords, they are often interchangeable, especially in more straightforward puzzles.
Are there common trick answers for "baffles"?
While "baffles" usually points to synonyms of confusion, be mindful of cryptic clues where "baffles" might refer to something physical that obstructs or deflects, such as 'DAMS' or 'SCREENS', depending on the context of the clue. Always consider alternative meanings and parts of speech!