What do you call a question requiring thought to answer, typically serving as a puzzle?

The term that best fits the description of a question requiring thought to answer and typically serving as a puzzle is "Riddle." Riddles are usually crafted as statements or questions that challenge the thinker to decipher a hidden meaning or find a solution that is not immediately apparent. They often use wordplay, metaphors, or logical reasoning, making them enjoyable as a form of intellectual engagement and entertainment.

While a "Conundrum" also refers to a challenging problem or puzzle, it is broader and can refer to any difficult question or dilemma, not just those posed in a riddle format. An "Enigma" implies something that is mysterious or puzzling but does not necessarily function in the interactive way that riddles do. A "Paradox" presents a situation or statement that seems contradictory or impossible, often inviting philosophical debate rather than straightforward problem-solving.

Therefore, a riddle specifically aligns with the definition as it is crafted to be a thought-provoking puzzle, leading to its selection as the correct answer.