Synonyms for

Riddle

Verb / ˈrɪdʌl / Another word for riddle — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

a question or statement that requires creative thinking to solve, often in the form of a puzzle or game

Synonyms & similar words

penetrate permeate imbue conundrum enigma diffuse pervade screen interpenetrate brainteaser puzzle brainteaser mystery enigma conundrum problem challenge quiz game question posers mystification head-scratcher teaser muddle mystic puzzlement secret stumper

Synonyms by register

Formal

enigma conundrum puzzle mystery

Informal

brain teaser poser head-scratcher

Literary

riddle query question

Antonyms

answer solution explanation clarification key solution

Common collocations

  • solve a riddle
  • pose a riddle
  • a difficult riddle
  • a classic riddle
  • answer the riddle
  • guess the riddle

Word family

noun riddle
verb riddle

Usage note

As a noun, 'riddle' refers to a puzzling question or statement. As a verb, 'to riddle' means to permeate or be full of holes, often used metaphorically.

Example sentences

  1. The riddle was so difficult that no one could solve it.
  2. I love solving riddles with my friends.
  3. The book was filled with riddles and puzzles.
  4. The riddle was a test of our intelligence.
  5. Can you answer this riddle: What has a heart that doesn't beat?

Quotes

  • A riddle is a question that takes more than five seconds to ask.
  • The riddle of life is simply this: how to fashion our sensibilities so that we can live fully and honestly and without fear.
  • The riddle of the world is the biggest question of all.

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