'Problem' definitions:

Definition of 'problem'

(from WordNet)
noun
A state of difficulty that needs to be resolved; "she and her husband are having problems"; "it is always a job to contact him"; "urban problems such as traffic congestion and smog" [syn: problem, job]
noun
A question raised for consideration or solution; "our homework consisted of ten problems to solve"
noun
A source of difficulty; "one trouble after another delayed the job"; "what's the problem?" [syn: trouble, problem]

Definition of 'Problem'

From: GCIDE
  • Problem \Prob"lem\, n. [F. probl[`e]me, L. problema, fr. Gr. ? anything thrown forward, a question proposed for solution, fr. ? to throw or lay before; ? before, forward + ? to throw. Cf. Parable. ] [1913 Webster]
  • 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. [1913 Webster]
  • 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. [1913 Webster]
  • Note: 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. [1913 Webster]
  • 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. [1913 Webster] Problematic

Synonyms of 'problem'

From: Moby Thesaurus