The word "puzzle" refers to a situation, problem, or game that requires thought and ingenuity to solve. It can be something like a jigsaw puzzle, a riddle, or a brain teaser that challenges a person’s reasoning and problem-solving skills. In a broader sense, a puzzle can also be a confusing or perplexing situation that is hard to understand or figure out.
The term "puzzle" comes from the verb "puzzle," which emerged in the late 16th century. It is believed to have originated from the old French word "pousser," meaning "to push." The shift in meaning to refer to something that baffles or confuses us evolved over time.