riddle
|rid/dle|
B2
/ˈrɪdəl/
puzzling question
Etymology
Etymology Information
'riddle' originates from Old English, specifically the word 'rædels,' where 'rædan' meant 'to interpret or advise.'
Historical Evolution
'rædels' transformed into the Middle English word 'redel,' and eventually became the modern English word 'riddle.'
Meaning Changes
Initially, it meant 'to interpret or advise,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'a puzzling question or statement.'
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
a question or statement intentionally phrased to require ingenuity in ascertaining its answer or meaning, typically presented as a game.
The riddle was so complex that it took hours to solve.
Synonyms
Idioms
Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:39