'riddle' originates from Old English, specifically the word 'rǣdels,' where 'rǣdan' meant 'to interpret or guess.'

'rǣdels' transformed into the Middle English word 'redel,' and eventually became the modern English word 'riddle.'

Initially, it meant 'to interpret or guess,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'to fill with holes or gaps.'