Word of the Day

: January 19, 2007

Gordian knot

noun GOR-dee-un-NAHT

What It Means

: an intricate problem; especially : a problem insoluble in its own terms

Gordian knot in Context

"This renovation project has become a Gordian knot," said Marvin, "and I think the only way to cut the knot is to knock down the structure and start over."

Did You Know?

According to Greek mythology, when the peasant Gordius became king of Gordium in Phrygia, he dedicated his wagon to Jupiter and fastened its yoke to a beam with a very complex knot. Centuries later, when Alexander the Great arrived on the scene, he was told that he couldn't conquer and rule Asia unless he proved himself worthy by untying the knot. Alexander quickly solved his problem -- and gained a new kingdom -- by slicing the knot in half with his sword. Since then, "Gordian knot" has become a term for a difficult problem, and the phrase "cut the Gordian knot" has become a popular way to describe a neat solution for an apparently insurmountable difficulty.