# riddle me that, Batman

idiom

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/riddle-me-that-batman
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

Said to demand that the listener take notice of a question or situation just mentioned, especially one that is particularly difficult to solve or explain.

## Examples

- If you are so smart, riddle me that, Batman.
- He says he is busy but he is playing games; riddle me that, Batman.
- The keys are not in my pocket or the door; riddle me that, Batman.
- You say you want to save money but you just bought a new car; riddle me that, Batman.
- The store is closed but all the lights are still on inside; riddle me that, Batman.
- You claim you do not like spicy food yet you put hot sauce on everything; riddle me that, Batman.
- The office is completely empty even though the manager said everyone must work on-site today; riddle me that, Batman.
- If the system is designed to reward efficiency yet consistently produces such chaotic results, riddle me that, Batman.

## Origin

From the formulaic phrase *riddle me this*, with the addition of a reference to the Batman comic book universe. The expression evokes the fictional supervillain the Riddler, who was known for posing puzzles for Batman to solve.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.