Gordian Knot
/ˌɡɔːr.di.ən ˈnɒt/noun
A highly complex problem or situation that seems impossible to resolve by ordinary methods.
Did you know?According to the ancient legend, Alexander the Great either cut the knot with his sword or cleverly loosened it, inspiring the modern phrase “cut the Gordian knot.”
Etymological Timeline
Ancient Phrygia
Phrygian
Gordios
“Gordius, the legendary Phrygian king associated with the knot”
4th Century BCE
Greek
Γόρδιος δεσμός (Górdios desmós)
“The knot or bond of Gordius”
1st Century BCE–1st Century CE
Latin
nodus Gordius
“The Gordian knot; the legendary knot at Gordium”
4th Century CE
Latin
Gordianus
“Of Gordius or Gordium; the adjective later became Gordian in English”
16th Century
English
Gordian knot
“A seemingly insoluble problem, especially one resolved by bold or unconventional action”
Modern English
English
Gordian knot
“A complex dilemma overcome through decisive, unconventional action”