Langimage
English

riddles

|rid/dles|

B2

/ˈrɪdəlz/

(riddle)

puzzling question

Base FormPlural3rd Person Sing.PastPast ParticiplePresent Participle
riddleriddlesriddlesriddledriddledriddling
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 children enjoyed solving the riddles at the party.

Synonyms

Verb 1

to speak in or pose riddles.

He often riddles his friends with tricky questions.

Synonyms

Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:45