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

Solving that conundrum may be a key factor in dictating whether there really will be a new age of nuclear power.

From BBC

The question is do they have the expertise to solve the Welsh rugby conundrum?

From BBC

Speaking about this conundrum, she recalls “a lightbulb moment” at a financial company she worked with.

From BBC

Tanton also had an early and lucid understanding that climate change would exacerbate the country’s immigration conundrum, and it ultimately framed his life’s work.

From Salon

The conundrum is if they move away from growing coffee, they will turn to alternative crops or land uses.

From BBC

Related Words

• enigma
• mystery
• riddle