What is a rebus?

A rebus is indeed a puzzle that decodes messages using pictures, symbols, or letters to represent words or parts of words. It taps into visual representation to convey ideas, making it a fun and engaging way to challenge one's interpretation skills. The concept relies on the viewer's ability to decipher images and their meanings, often combining visual elements in ways that require creative thinking and lateral problem-solving.

In contrast, the other choices present different concepts. The first option describes a riddle that specifically focuses on numbers, which is not aligned with the visual and pictorial nature of a rebus. The third option refers to a type of literary work known for its depth and significance, which is unrelated to the playful puzzle format of a rebus. The fourth choice discusses a musical composition characterized by intricate rhythms, which again does not connect to the visual decoding aspect inherent in rebuses. Therefore, the emphasis on pictorial elements as a mechanism for communication and interpretation makes the second choice the correct definition of a rebus.