ˈprɔbləm n. 1 a
doubtful or
difficult matter requiring a
solution (how to
prevent it is a problem;
the problem of ventilation). 2
something hard to
understand or
accomplish or deal
with. 3 (attrib.) a causing problems; difficult to deal with (problem child). b (of a
play, novel, etc.) in
which a
social or
other problem is treated. 4 a
Physics &
Math. an
inquiry starting from given conditions to
investigate or
demonstrate a
fact,
result, or
law. b Geom. a
proposition in which something
has to be constructed (cf. THEOREM). 5 a (in
various games,
esp. chess) an
arrangement of
men, cards,
etc., in which the solver has to
achieve a specified result. b a
puzzle or
question for solution. [ME f. OF probleme or L problema f. Gk problema -matos f. proballo (as
PRO-(2), ballo throw)]