Puzzle Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐งฉ
puzzle
[หpสz(ษ)l ]
Definition
brain teaser
A game, toy, or problem designed to test ingenuity or knowledge.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| puzzle |
Typically used for games or problems designed to test ingenuity or knowledge.
|
| riddle |
A question or statement intentionally phrased to require ingenuity in ascertaining its answer or meaning, often used in poetic or playful contexts.
|
| enigma |
Describes something mysterious or difficult to understand, often used in more formal or literary contexts.
|
| brainteaser |
Refers to a problem that requires thought and cleverness to solve, often used in educational or entertaining contexts.
|
Examples of usage
- She enjoys solving puzzles in her free time.
- The crossword puzzle in the newspaper was particularly challenging today.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
History
- Jigsaw puzzles originated in the 1760s, when map-makers would engrave their maps onto flat pieces of wood to create learning tools.
- The first documented jigsaw puzzle was created by John Spilsbury, a British engraver, who used a saw to cut a map into pieces.
- Over time, puzzles transformed from educational tools to popular entertainment, evolving with technology.
Pop Culture
- Puzzles have been featured in countless movies and TV shows, often representing mystery or problem-solving.
- The popular childrenโs book series 'Nancy Drew' involves many puzzle-solving adventures, showcasing cleverness in storytelling.
- Escape rooms, which are physical adventure games, often combine various puzzles that players must solve to 'escape' within a time limit.
Psychology
- Engaging with puzzles can improve critical thinking and problem-solving skills, stimulating cognitive functions.
- Research shows that solving puzzles regularly can enhance memory and brain function, as they engage different areas of the brain.
- People often use puzzles as a form of stress relief, finding joy in solving complex challenges and focusing the mind.
Educational Benefits
- Puzzles can help improve spatial awareness in children as they learn to fit pieces together.
- They are often used in classrooms to promote teamwork and communication skills through collaborative problem-solving.
- Puzzles come in various forms, including crosswords and logic puzzles, encouraging diverse skills and subjects in learning.
Origin of 'puzzle'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'puzzle' comes from the Middle French word 'pousser', meaning to confuse or perplex.
- It is believed to have first appeared in English writing in the late 16th century.
- Originally, the term also referred to a kind of riddle or question that challenged one's cleverness.
The word 'puzzle' originated from the Middle English word 'pusel', which meant 'bewilderment'. The term evolved to describe a perplexing situation or a mental challenge. Over time, 'puzzle' came to refer to a wide range of games and problems that require critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Today, puzzles are popular forms of entertainment and education, enjoyed by people of all ages.