Rarely, but sometimes, I like to use big words. At these times my husband likes to give me a surprised look as if saying he is amused and a little impressed by the use of my big word. Lately I’ve been enjoying the word ‘conundrum.’
co·nun·drum [kuh-nuhn-druhm]
noun (pl. -drums)
A confusing and difficult problem or question: one of the most difficult conundrums for the experts.
- A question asked for amusement, typically one with a pun in its answer; a riddle.
ORGIN late 16th century of unknown origin, but first recorded in work by Thomas Nashe, as a term of abuse for a crank or pedant, later coming to denote a whim or fancy, also a pun. Current senses date from the late 17th century.
Savethewords.org
