riddle

A riddle is a statement or question intentionally designed to require ingenuity to answer. It often presents clues through metaphor, wordplay, or double meaning, and the solver must identify the subject or solution that satisfies the clues. Riddles differ from straightforward questions in that they invite interpretation and experimentation with language.

The term derives from Old English and related Germanic words for speaking or asking questions; the exact linguistic path is uncertain. In many cultures, riddles take the form of short verses or proverbs that conceal meaning inside figurative language.

Riddling appears in ancient literature and folklore. Collections such as the Exeter Book riddles from Anglo-Saxon England showcase traditional formats. Riddles have been used in education, storytelling, and social games across civilizations, including Norse, Greek, Indian, and Arab traditions. In modern times, riddles persist in books, magazines, online forums, and puzzle hunts.

Form and types: a riddle typically presents clues to a target, often with misdirection. The answer is usually a single word or short phrase, sometimes a person, place, object, or concept. Variants include wordplay riddles, logic puzzles, and cryptic clues used in cryptic crosswords. A classic example is: “What has keys but cannot open locks? A piano.”