'Dilemma' definitions:

Definition of 'dilemma'

noun

State of uncertainty or perplexity especially as requiring a choice between equally unfavorable options [syn: dilemma, quandary]

From: GCIDE

Dilemma \Di*lem"ma\, n. [L. dilemma, Gr. ?; di- = di`s- twice + ? to take. See Lemma.]
1. (Logic) An argument which presents an antagonist with two or more alternatives, but is equally conclusive against him, whichever alternative he chooses. [1913 Webster]
Note: The following are instances of the dilemma. A young rhetorician applied to an old sophist to be taught the art of pleading, and bargained for a certain reward to be paid when he should gain a cause. The master sued for his reward, and the scholar endeavored to elude his claim by a dilemma. "If I gain my cause, I shall withhold your pay, because the judge's award will be against you; if I lose it, I may withhold it, because I shall not yet have gained a cause." "On the contrary," says the master, "if you gain your cause, you must pay me, because you are to pay me when you gain a cause; if you lose it, you must pay me, because the judge will award it." --Johnson. [1913 Webster]
2. A state of things in which evils or obstacles present themselves on every side, and it is difficult to determine what course to pursue; a vexatious alternative or predicament; a difficult choice or position. [1913 Webster]
A strong dilemma in a desperate case! To act with infamy, or quit the place. --Swift. [1913 Webster]
Horns of a dilemma, alternatives, each of which is equally difficult of encountering. [1913 Webster]