Gordian knot

Gor·di·an knot

noun \ˈgȯr-dē-ən-\

Definition of GORDIAN KNOT

1

: an intricate problem; especially : a problem insoluble in its own terms —often used in the phrase cut the Gordian knot

2

: a knot tied by Gordius, king of Phrygia, held to be capable of being untied only by the future ruler of Asia, and cut by Alexander the Great with his sword

Examples of GORDIAN KNOT

1. a Gordian knot of legal troubles

First Known Use of GORDIAN KNOT

1579

Rhymes with GORDIAN KNOT

as like as not, by a long shot, compatriot, expansion slot, forget-me-not, hit the jackpot, immunoblot, Inupiat, magnificat, overhand knot, penalty shot, requiescat, stevedore knot, true lover's knot