n. (pl. -ies)
1. the state or condition of being difficult.
2 a a difficult thing; a problem or hindrance. b (often in pl.) a cause of distress or hardship (in financial difficulties; there was someone in difficulties in the water).
Phrases and idioms:
make difficulties be intransigent or unaccommodating. with difficulty not easily.
Etymology: ME f. L difficultas (as DIS-, facultas FACULTY)