as in mysteries
something hard to understand or explain
why he chose to sink all of his money into a failing business is a real head-scratcher
Synonyms & Similar Words
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Example Sentences
Recent Examples of Synonyms for head-scratchers
Noun
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Only at Lou’s funeral, after a woman with whom Lou had an affair shows up, does Tom realize that his father’s life contained unknown mysteries.—
The New Yorker,
New Yorker,
6 Apr. 2026 -
From roughly 4,000 miles away, the view could soon offer rare insights into the moon’s enduring mysteries, said Judd Frieling, Artemis II ascent flight director.—
Alexandra Banner,
CNN Money,
6 Apr. 2026
Noun
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Simpson has been one of the biggest enigmas in this year’s draft.—
Antwan Staley,
New York Daily News,
30 Mar. 2026
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Speaking of enigmas, Katie Zelem plays for West Ham now on loan after less than five months with London City.—
Megan Feringa,
New York Times,
4 Feb. 2026
Noun
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Check out the all new PLAY hub with puzzles, games and more!—
Ralphie Aversa,
USA Today,
2 Apr. 2026
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There are many puzzles that hint at this.—
Big Think,
Big Think,
19 Mar. 2026
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Cite this Entry
“Head-scratchers.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/head-scratchers. Accessed 7 Apr. 2026.
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