browse words by letter
a
b
c
d
e
f
g
h
i
j
k
l
m
n
o
p
q
r
s
t
u
v
w
x
y
z
problem |
2 definitions found From Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (1913) [web1913]: Problem \Prob"lem\, n. [F. probl[`e]me, L. problema, fr Gr ? anything thrown forward, a question proposed for solution, fr ? to throw or lay before ? before forward + ? to throw. Cf {Parable}. ] 1. A question proposed for solution; a matter stated for examination or proof; hence a matter difficult of solution or settlement; a doubtful case; a question involving doubt. --Bacon. 2. (Math.) Anything which is required to be done as in geometry, to bisect a line to draw a perpendicular; or in algebra, to find an unknown quantity. Note: Problem differs from theorem in this that a problem is something to be done as to bisect a triangle, to describe a circle, etc.; a theorem is something to be proved, as that all the angles of a triangle are equal to two right angles. {Plane problem} (Geom.), a problem that can be solved by the use of the rule and compass. {Solid problem} (Geom.), a problem requiring in its geometric solution the use of a conic section or higher curve. From WordNet r 1.6 [wn]: problem n 1: a state of difficulty that needs to be resolved; "she and her husband are having problems"; "it is always a job to contact him"; "urban problems such as traffic congestion and smog" [syn: {job}] 2: a source of difficulty: "one trouble after another delayed the job"; "what's the problem?" [syn: {trouble}] 3: a question raised for consideration or solution; "our homework consisted of ten problems to solve"
more about problem
This work is licensed under a
