conundrum

noun

kə-ˈnən-drəm How to pronounce conundrum (audio)
Definition of conundrumnext
as in mystery
something hard to understand or explain the conundrum of how an ancient people were able to build such massive structures without the benefit of today's knowledge and technology

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of conundrum The same conundrum saw investors punish Alphabet and Tesla, but reward Microsoft and Amazon for accelerating revenue growth and posting blowout backlog numbers this quarter. — Amanda Gerut, Fortune, 5 Aug. 2026 In mid-June, Halle Berry had an issue, and that created a conundrum for Gabby Williams. — Brian Hamilton, New York Times, 4 Aug. 2026 Each act unfolds over a season, and each season brings with it a devilish new conundrum. — Justin Chang, New Yorker, 30 July 2026 Then there's the conundrum of non-technological intelligent life in the universe. — Keith Cooper, Space.com, 27 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for conundrum
Recent Examples of Synonyms for conundrum
  1. mystery
  2. enigma
Noun
  • The Nancy Grace Roman Space Telescope is about to launch on an incredible adventure to help scientists explore the great mysteries of the universe.
    — Chelsea Gohd, Space.com, 29 Aug. 2026
  • Why the Central African Republic agreed to accept migrants from the US is still something of a mystery.
    — Mick Krever, CNN Money, 29 Aug. 2026
Definition of mystery
Noun
  • Its findings could also unlock clues about dark energy and dark matter, and some of the universe’s biggest enigmas.
    — Denise Chow, NBC news, 29 Aug. 2026
  • Rafa is a kind of enigma, an international sports figure who’s massively well liked and well known across the globe, but who has maintained an inner private life that is very authentically Spanish.
    — John Hopewell, Variety, 19 Aug. 2026
Definition of enigma

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contusions
conundrum
conundrums
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Cite this Entry

“Conundrum.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/conundrum. Accessed 30 Aug. 2026.

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