acertijo
“acertijo” means “riddle” in Spanish (a word game where you have to guess a hidden answer).
riddle
Also: puzzle, enigma
📝 In Action
Tengo un acertijo para ti: ¿qué tiene llaves pero no abre puertas?
A1I have a riddle for you: what has keys but doesn't open doors?
Me encanta resolver acertijos matemáticos en mi tiempo libre.
B1I love solving math puzzles in my free time.
Su comportamiento es un auténtico acertijo para todos nosotros.
C1His behavior is a real enigma to all of us.
✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: acertijo
Question 1 of 3
If you are putting together a physical 1000-piece jigsaw puzzle of the Eiffel Tower, what should you call it?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
📚 Etymology▼
Derived from the verb 'acertar' (to hit the mark or guess right), which comes from the Latin word 'certus', meaning 'certain' or 'sure'. It's basically a 'little thing to get right'.
First recorded: 16th century
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is 'acertijo' the same as 'enigma'?
Very similar! An 'acertijo' is usually a game or a intentional puzzle designed to be solved, while an 'enigma' is more of a general mystery or something naturally confusing.
How do you pronounce the 'j' in acertijo?
The 'j' in Spanish sounds like a strong 'h' in English, almost like you are gently clearing your throat. It is pronounced /ho/.
Can 'acertijo' be feminine?
No, 'acertijo' is always a masculine noun. You must always use 'el acertijo' or 'un acertijo'.