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riddled

adjective

/ˈrɪd ld/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of riddled

Filled, permeated, or characterized by a multitude of holes, gaps, or perforations.
"The politician's speech was riddled with contradictions and false statements."

Detailed meaning of riddled

It suggests a state of being extensively or abundantly marked by openings or gaps, often resulting in a fragmented, porous, or compromised structure. When an object or a situation is described as riddled, it implies that it is full of or plagued by a large number of openings or vulnerabilities. The term is commonly used metaphorically to describe situations, issues, or problems that are complex, challenging, or filled with difficulties. It conveys a sense of being beset by numerous flaws, uncertainties, or unresolved aspects. Riddled can also connote a state of confusion or ambiguity, where information or understanding is incomplete or lacking. Overall, riddled describes a condition characterized by the presence of many holes, gaps, flaws, or uncertainties, leading to a sense of fragmentation or difficulty in comprehending or resolving the situation at hand.

Example sentences containing riddled

1. The old building was riddled with bullet holes from years of conflict.
2. Her argument was riddled with logical fallacies, undermining its credibility.
3. The detective discovered a note riddled with cryptic messages and hidden clues.
4. The cheese was riddled with small air pockets, giving it a unique texture.
5. The report was riddled with spelling errors and grammatical mistakes.
6. The athlete's body was riddled with injuries, hindering their performance.

History and etymology of riddled

The adjective 'riddled' has an etymology that can be linked to the Old English word 'hriddel,' which referred to a sieve or a utensil with holes or perforations used for separating particles. The word 'hriddel' evolved from the Proto-Germanic 'hridilaz,' which had a similar meaning of a tool with perforations. Over time, 'riddled' came to describe something that is filled, permeated, or characterized by a multitude of holes, gaps, or perforations, much like the utensil it was named after. Thus, the etymology of 'riddled' aptly conveys the notion of an object or situation being marked by a profusion of openings or gaps, suggesting a sense of incompleteness or vulnerability due to the presence of these perforations.

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Further usage examples of riddled

1. The story was riddled with plot twists and unexpected turns.
2. The ancient manuscript was riddled with missing pages and fragmented text.
3. The town was riddled with corruption, leading to widespread distrust among the residents.
4. The cake was riddled with tunnels of melted chocolate, adding a delightful surprise.
5. The forest was riddled with narrow paths, making it challenging to navigate.
6. The old wooden fence was riddled with termite holes.
7. Her argument was riddled with logical inconsistencies.
8. The abandoned building was riddled with broken windows.
9. The cheese was riddled with small air pockets.
10. The road was riddled with potholes, making driving treacherous.
11. The paper was riddled with bullet holes from the shootout.
12. The fabric of the shirt was riddled with moth damage.
13. The report was riddled with spelling and grammar errors.
14. The shipwreck was riddled with rust after years in the sea.
15. His alibi was riddled with inconsistencies.
16. The ancient manuscript was riddled with missing pages.
17. The forest floor was riddled with animal tracks.
18. The computer's code was riddled with bugs.
19. The detective's theory was riddled with unanswered questions.
20. The attic was riddled with cobwebs and dust.
21. The sponge was riddled with holes from heavy use.
22. The car's body was riddled with hail damage.
23. Her memory was riddled with gaps from the accident.
24. The mountain path was riddled with loose rocks.
25. The roof was riddled with leaks during the storm.