Puzzle
/ˈpʌz.əl/noun
A game, toy, or problem designed to test ingenuity or knowledge.
Did you know?The word 'puzzle' may trace back to a term meaning to 'bewilder' or 'perplex', hinting at a deeper connection to confusion and mystery.
Etymological Timeline
Middle English
English
poselen
“To confuse or bewilder”
14th Century
English
puzzle
“To be in a state of perplexity or confusion”
16th Century
English
puzzle
“To make a perplexing problem or riddle”
17th Century
English
puzzle
“A game or problem that causes confusion or difficulty in understanding”
Modern English
English
puzzle
“An activity that requires ingenuity to solve, often involving a physical object or riddle.”
Explore more surprising origins