problem

noun

prob·lem | \ ˈprä-bləm

, -bᵊm, -ˌblem\

Definition of problem

(Entry 1 of 2)

1a : a question raised for inquiry, consideration, or solution

b : a proposition in mathematics or physics stating something to be done

2a : an intricate unsettled question

b : a source of perplexity, distress, or vexation

c : difficulty in understanding or accepting I have a problem with your saying that

problem

adjective

Definition of problem (Entry 2 of 2)

1 : dealing with a problem of conduct or social relationship a problem play

2 : difficult to deal with a problem child

Synonyms & Antonyms Choose the Right Synonym More Example Sentences Learn More about problem

Keep scrolling for more

Synonyms & Antonyms for problem

Synonyms: Noun

case, challenge, knot, matter, nut, trouble

Antonyms: Noun

answer, solution

Choose the Right Synonym for problem

Noun

mystery, problem, enigma, riddle, puzzle mean something which baffles or perplexes. mystery applies to what cannot be fully understood by reason or less strictly to whatever resists or defies explanation. the mystery of the stone monoliths problem applies to a question or difficulty calling for a solution or causing concern. problems created by high technology enigma applies to utterance or behavior that is very difficult to interpret. his suicide remains an enigma riddle suggests an enigma or problem involving paradox or apparent contradiction. the riddle of the reclusive pop star puzzle applies to an enigma or problem that challenges ingenuity for its solution. the thief's motives were a puzzle for the police

Examples of problem in a Sentence

Noun

Racism and sexism are major social problems. The company is having financial problems.

Recent Examples on the Web: Noun

Clear out a problem by having an active discussion. — BostonGlobe.com, "Horoscope," 28 Aug. 2019 Organizations of all stripes are increasingly realizing that the education system that propelled their success in the past is failing to produce the entrepreneurial and collaborative problem-solving talent necessary to thrive in the future. — Fortune, "How Learning Can Catch Up With Technological Change," 27 Aug. 2019

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'problem.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Keep scrolling for more

More Definitions for problem

problem

noun

English Language Learners Definition of problem

(Entry 1 of 2)

: something that is difficult to deal with : something that is a source of trouble, worry, etc.

: difficulty in understanding something

: a feeling of not liking or wanting to do something

problem

adjective

English Language Learners Definition of problem (Entry 2 of 2)

: difficult to deal with

See the full definition for problem in the English Language Learners Dictionary

problem

noun

prob·lem | \ ˈprä-bləm

Kids Definition of problem

1 : something to be worked out or solved a problem in arithmetic

2 : a person or thing that is hard to understand or deal with He's not the problem. His parents are. Her behavior is a big problem.

problem

Definition of problem

Synonyms & Antonyms for problem

Choose the Right Synonym for problem

Examples of problem in a Sentence

First Known Use of problem

History and Etymology for problem

English Language Learners Definition of problem

Kids Definition of problem

problem

Definition of problem

Synonyms & Antonyms for problem

Choose the Right Synonym for problem

Examples of problem in a Sentence

First Known Use of problem

History and Etymology for problem

English Language Learners Definition of problem

Kids Definition of problem

WORD OF THE DAY