conundrum

[kuh-nuhn-druhm]

noun

1. a riddle, the answer to which involves a pun or play on words, as What is black and white and read all over? A newspaper.

2. anything that puzzles.

conundrum

/ kəˈnʌndrəm /

noun

1. a riddle, esp one whose answer makes a play on words

2. a puzzling question or problem

Word History and Origins

Origin of conundrum¹

First recorded in 1590–1600; pseudo-Latin word of obscure origin

Word History and Origins

Origin of conundrum¹

C16: of unknown origin

Example Sentences

It’s a bit of a chicken and egg conundrum.

Read more on Barron's

It’s a bit of a chicken and egg conundrum.

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For many Americans taking a weight-loss drug, Thanksgiving presents a conundrum: Take the weekly dose that staves off hunger, or push it off so they can feast?

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

CEO Daniel Heaf lays out the conundrum facing many households this holiday season: “Do I want to put food on my table, or do I want a candle?” he said on a call with Barron’s.

Read more on Barron's

CEO Daniel Heaf lays out the conundrum facing many households this holiday season: “Do I want to put food on my table, or do I want a candle?” he said on a call with Barron’s.

Read more on Barron's

Related Words

• enigma 
• mystery 
• riddle