conundrum
Conundrum (noun) means a confusing or difficult problem, often one without a clear solution. Example: “Choosing between the two job offers was a real conundrum.”
How to Use Conundrum
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA tricky problem or puzzling dilemma.
Word Forms
conundrums plural, conundra plural
Fill the Gap
Can you complete this real example?
Choosing between the two job offers was a real _____.
Etymology
Origin unknown; it appeared in the 1500s-1600s as a playful, mock-scholarly Latin-sounding coinage, in the same spirit as "hocus-pocus."
Synonyms
View more →Related Words
Frequently Asked Questions
What does “conundrum” mean?
The word “conundrum” means a confusing or difficult problem, often one without a clear solution. In plain terms, a tricky problem or puzzling dilemma.
How do you pronounce “conundrum”?
“Conundrum” is pronounced kuh-NUHN-druhm (/kəˈnʌn.dɹəm/ in IPA).
How do you use “conundrum” in a sentence?
Here is “conundrum” used in a sentence: “Choosing between the two job offers was a real conundrum.”
What part of speech is “conundrum”?
“Conundrum” is a noun.
Where does the word “conundrum” come from?
The word “conundrum” dates back to around 1500 and comes from Latin. Origin unknown; it appeared in the 1500s-1600s as a playful, mock-scholarly Latin-sounding coinage, in the same spirit as "hocus-pocus.".