Definition

A type of mathematical puzzle where letters are used in place of numbers, and the goal is to find which digit each letter represents to solve the equation correctly.

Example

She solved the cryptarithm and discovered that the letter A stood for 1 and B stood for 2.

Conversation

Have you ever tried to solve a cryptarithm?

No, I haven't! What is it exactly?

It's a fun puzzle where letters represent numbers in a math problem.

That sounds interesting! I might give it a shot.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Cryptarithm is formed from "crypt" (from Greek "kryptos", meaning hidden) and "arithmos" (from Greek "arithmos", meaning number). The word refers to a mathematical puzzle where the digits are replaced by letters or symbols, making the numbers hidden.

Memory Tip

Think of 'hidden' ('crypt') numbers ('arithmos') to remember that a cryptarithm is a puzzle involving concealed digits.

Visually Confused Words