noun
conundrum
kuh-NUHN-druhm
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.”
noun
1
A confusing or difficult problem, often one without a clear solution.
"Choosing between the two job offers was a real conundrum."
"The detective faced a conundrum: two suspects, but only one alibi."
How to use conundrum
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA tricky problem or puzzling dilemma.
Common pairings
a real conundrum
face a conundrum
solve a conundrum
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Word forms
- Plural
- conundrums, conundra
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."
Class of 1500
conundrum joined the language around 1500.
See the full Class of 1500 →
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.".
