baffle

(noun) a flat plate that controls or directs the flow of fluid or energy. Synonyms: baffle board.

(verb) be a mystery or bewildering to. Synonyms: perplex, vex, stick, get, puzzle, mystify, beat, pose, bewilder, flummox, stupefy, nonplus, gravel, amaze, dumbfound. Examples: "This beats me!." "Got me--i don't know the answer!." "A vexing problem." "This question really stuck me."

(verb) hinder or prevent (the efforts, plans, or desires) of. Synonyms: thwart, queer, spoil, scotch, foil, cross, frustrate, bilk. Examples: "What ultimately frustrated every challenger was ruth's amazing september surge." "Foil your opponent."

(verb) check the emission of (sound). Synonyms: regulate.