kəˈnʌn.dɹəm dɪˈfjuːz ɪˈnɪɡmə ɪmˈbjuː ˈpɛnɪtɹeɪt ˈpɜːmiˌeɪt ˈpɝmiˌeɪ̯t pɜː(ɹ)ˈveɪd pɚˈveɪd skɹiːn set a difficult problem or riddle riddle me a riddle explain a riddle speak in riddles spread or diffuse through An atmosphere of distrust has permeated this administration music penetrated the entire building His campaign was riddled with accusations and personal attacks pierce with many holes The bullets riddled his body separate with a riddle, as grain from chaff a coarse sieve (as for gravel) a difficult problem