Prob"lem (?), n. [F. problème, 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.
&fist; 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.
Hear it pronounced