The Open Dictionary

confound

verb

UK/kənˈfaʊnd/
US/kənˈfaʊnd/

Definitions of confound verb

  1. Transitive

    to cause surprise and confusion in someone, often making them unable to understand or respond to a situation.

    • The scientist presented findings that defied conventional theories, confounding the entire academic community.

    • The unexpected results of the competition confounded all the observers.

    • The company's sudden shift in strategy confounded industry analysts.