riddle me that, Batman

English

Etymology

From the formulaic phrase riddle me this, additionally referring to the Batman comic book universe, in which the fictional supervillain the Riddler would pose puzzles for Batman to solve (riddle).

Phrase

riddle me that, Batman

1. 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.
   • 2009, John C. Stipa, No Greater Sacrifice, page 55:

     "That too. But it's this: how can a benevolent being let such bad things happen? Terrorism, world hunger, AIDS, people dying too young of cancer. Riddle me that, Batman.”

   • 2014, Marni Bates, Awkwardly Ever After, page 77:

     "You have no idea what's going on, Melanie," she snarled. "No. Freaking. Clue. I'm going to have to join witness protection, and then where will you be, huh? Riddle me that, Batman!"

   • 2014, Jason Medina, The Diary of Audrey Malone Frayer, page 135:

     Why can't Jerry and I be together forever like a real couple? Riddle me that, Batman? Society? No. Idiots.

Synonyms

• (a demand that the listener solve a conundrum): riddle me this, riddle me this, Batman