conundrum
noun
[ kəˈnʌndrəm ]
• a confusing and difficult problem or question.
• "one of the most difficult conundrums for the experts"
Similar:
problem,
difficult question,
vexed question,
difficulty,
quandary,
dilemma,
puzzle,
enigma,
mystery,
poser,
facer,
stumper,
cruncher,
Origin:
late 16th century: of unknown origin, but first recorded in a work by Thomas Nashe, as a term of abuse for a crank or pedant, later coming to denote a whim or fancy, also a pun. Current senses date from the late 17th century.
