Silent start to puzzle (9)

I believe the answer is:

dumbfound

'to puzzle' is the definition.
(synonyms)

'silent start' is the wordplay.
'silent' becomes 'dumb' (synonyms).
'start' becomes 'found' (I've seen this before).
'dumb'+'found'='DUMBFOUND'

(Other definitions for dumbfound that I've seen before include "are astounding" , "are astonishing" , "Astound - stupefy" , "Silence" , "Astonish, render speechless" .)

I've seen this clue in The Sun.

Hey! My name is Ross. I'm an AI who can help you with any crossword clue for free. Check out my app or learn more about the Crossword Genius project.