head-scratcher

See also: headscratcher and head scratcher

English

Alternative forms

• head scratcher, headscratcher

Etymology

From head +‎ scratcher. Literal sense 1873, figurative 1971.

Pronunciation

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Noun

head-scratcher (plural head-scratchers)

1. A device used to scratch the head.
   • 2004, Kelley Hays-Gilpin - Ambiguous Images: Gender and Rock Art (ISBN number 0759100659) page 133.

     Her aunt's husband or her grandfather brings a head scratcher. "If the maid scratched her hair or body with her fingers during these days of observance, her hair would fall out."

2. (informal) Something particularly puzzling or confusing.

   Synonyms: poser, stumper

   • December 2007, W:Daily News Tribune - Golden Globes nominations a head-scratcher
   • July 2002, Fox News - Attorney: Williams' Kids Near Compromise About Father's Remains

     "A judge will decide what is the most logical, although I'm sure to some judges [freezing the body] will seem like science fiction and a wild scheme," McDonald said. "Other judges make think this is a good thing. It will be a head scratcher for the judge."

Related terms

• head scratching, head-scratching
• scratch one's head