Conundrum
A puzzling question; a riddle; a problem that is difficult to solve or understand.
nounConundrum
A puzzling question; a riddle; a problem that is difficult to solve or understand.
nounImagine This
Long ago, in a parade, a school band puzzled the audience because its drummer used corn cobs instead of drum sticks (not the chicken drumstick!). It remains a mystery why the sound of the drum was so good… Do you know why?
Sounds Like
kuh-nuhn-druhm
Looks Like
Ends with 'drum'; contains 'con' and 'undrum' as a clue.
Remember This
Conundrum is commonly used to describe a difficult problem or puzzle; it is not typically used for people. Its origin is uncertain; the word has a playful, literary tone.
Other Forms
Connect With
puzzle, riddle, mystery, enigma, quandary
Note
Avoid confusing conundrum with similar-sounding words like 'encumbrance' or with phrases that imply a simple answer. It often collocates with 'puzzle', 'mystery', or 'riddle'.