riddle etymology

Etymology of "Riddle":

  • Early 13th century, from Old English rǣdels ("a riddle, an enigma"), from Proto-West Germanic rāþilaz, from Proto-Germanic rēþilaz, from PIE root *reyt- ("to count, to calculate").

Meaning of "Riddle":

  • A question or statement that is intentionally phrased in a way that is difficult to understand or answer, typically requiring the use of wit or ingenuity.
  • A puzzle that requires the solution of a problem or a hidden meaning.
  • A perplexing or mysterious situation or question.

Origin of "Riddle":

  • The word "riddle" originated in Old English as "rǣdels."
  • It is related to the Old Norse word "rœðla," the Old Saxon word "rādhila," and the Old High German word "rātsila," all of which mean "riddle."
  • These words are all derived from the Proto-Germanic root rēþilaz, which means "to count" or "to calculate."
  • This suggests that riddles were originally seen as a form of mental exercise or calculation.

riddle relate terms

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  • rede

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  • riddle

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  • enigma

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  • gravel

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