Entry Word: problem

Function: noun

Meaning: 1 something that requires thought and skill for resolution <the problem of world hunger>

Synonyms case, knot, matter, trouble

Related Words issue, question; challenge; corner, fix, hole, hot water, jam, pickle, predicament, situation; glitch, hitch, snag; conundrum, enigma, mystery, puzzle, puzzlement, riddle; brainteaser, perplexer, poser, stumper

Antonyms answer, solution

2 an interrogative expression often used to test knowledge <there were only ten problems on the exam, but they were all challenging> — see question 1
3 something that is a source of irritation <the mosquitoes are only a problem in the evenings> — see annoyance 3