quandary
|quan-da-ry|
C1
🇺🇸
/ˈkwɑːn.dri/
🇬🇧
/ˈkwɒn.dri/
state of uncertainty
Etymology
Etymology Information
'quandary' originates from the Latin word 'quando,' meaning 'when.'
Historical Evolution
'quando' transformed into the English word 'quandary' through Middle English.
Meaning Changes
Initially, it meant 'a question of when,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'a state of uncertainty.'
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
a state of uncertainty or perplexity, especially as requiring a choice between equally unfavorable options.
She was in a quandary about whether to accept the job offer or not.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:39