Meaning & Definition
verb
to cause surprise or confusion in (someone), especially by not according with their expectations.
The sudden arrival of the unexpected guest confounded everyone at the party.
to mix up (things) so that the individual elements become difficult to distinguish.
The two identical twins often confound their teachers and classmates.
to prove (someone) wrong; to refute.
The scientist confounded her critics with her groundbreaking research findings.
Etymology
Late Middle English: from Old French 'confondre', from Latin 'confundere' meaning 'to pour together'.
Common Phrases and Expressions
Confound it!:
An exclamation of frustration or annoyance.
Confound the odds!:
To achieve something unexpected against the odds.
Slang Meanings
To mess with someone's mind.
That movie really confounded me!
To throw someone off their game.
The sudden change in plans confounded him.