Buridan's ass

noun

Bu·ri·dan's ass

ˈbyu̇rədᵊnz-,

-dənz-

: a hypothetical dilemma in which a person is postulated as presented with two equally attractive and attainable alternatives and therefore loses freedom of choice

Word History

Etymology

after Jean Buridan †about 1358 French philosopher, who is reputed to have posed the problem

Cite this Entry

Style

“Buridan's ass.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/Buridan%27s%20ass. Accessed 30 Nov. 2024.

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