riddle
10 synonyms and 0 antonyms for riddle, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Noun — A question or statement phrased puzzlingly, meant to be solved for fun or as a test of wit.
Synonyms
Everyday swaps
Common words most readers know — safe in any writing.
Less common
Still standard English, but they carry more weight.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
How to use riddle
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
Etymology
From Old English rædels, meaning "counsel" or "puzzle," related to rede ("advice") — the same root that gives us the phrase "read someone's mind."
Full origin of riddle →Frequently asked questions
What does “riddle” mean?
The word “riddle” means a question or statement phrased puzzlingly, meant to be solved for fun or as a test of wit. In plain terms, a tricky puzzle-question, a coarse sieve, or (as a verb) to fill something full of holes or problems.
How do you pronounce “riddle”?
“Riddle” is pronounced RIH-duhl (/ˈɹɪdəl/ in IPA).
How do you use “riddle” in a sentence?
Here is “riddle” used in a sentence: “The sphinx asked travellers a riddle before letting them pass.”
What part of speech is “riddle”?
Depending on how it is used, “riddle” can be a noun and a verb.
Where does the word “riddle” come from?
The word “riddle” comes from Old English. From Old English rædels, meaning "counsel" or "puzzle," related to rede ("advice") — the same root that gives us the phrase "read someone's mind.".
Is “riddle” a common word?
“Riddle” is an uncommon word in modern English, usually learned at around the B1 level.
How many meanings does “riddle” have?
“Riddle” has 3 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a question or statement phrased puzzlingly, meant to be solved for fun or as a test of wit.