Webster's English Dictionary

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problem

Cross references:
  1. mystery               
 
1. prob.lem \'pra:b-l*m, 'pra:b-*m, -.lem\ n [ME probleme, fr. MF, fr. L 
   problema, fr. Gk proble-ma, li]t., something thrown forward, fr. proballein 
   to throw forward, fr. pro- forward + ballein to throw - more at PRO-, DEVIL 
   1a: a question raised for inquiry, consideration, or solution  1b: a 
   proposition in mathematics or physics stating something to be done  2a: an 
   intricate unsettled question  2b: a source of perplexity or vexation 
2. problem aj 1: dealing with a problem of human conduct or social 
   relationship  2: difficult to deal with