enigma — a person or thing that is mysterious, puzzling, or difficult to understand
Part of speech: NOUN
Definition: a person or thing that is mysterious, puzzling, or difficult to understand
Pronunciation (IPA): /ɪˈnɪɡmə/
Example Sentences
- My cat's behavior is such an enigma - she loves tuna but runs away when I open a can.
- The ancient civilization left behind many enigmas that archaeologists are still trying to solve.
- Einstein was an enigma to his neighbors - they thought he was just a weird guy who never combed his hair.
enigma
NOUN[/ɪˈnɪɡmə/]
a person or thing that is mysterious, puzzling, or difficult to understand
The ancient message remained an enigma for centuries.
The scientist remained an enigma to the public. (ENCODED + MYSTERY = ENIGMA → a puzzle or mystery that is difficult to understand)
The enigma carried a stigma until someone solved it.
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🎤Pronunciation
🌳Etymology
Origin
From Latin 'aenigma', which was borrowed from Greek 'ainigma' meaning 'riddle' or 'obscure saying', derived from 'ainissesthai' meaning 'to speak in riddles'.
Breakdown
Greek 'ainigma' (riddle) → Latin 'aenigma' → English 'enigma' (a mysterious or puzzling person or thing)
🎵Rhyme
🔗Collocations
📝Examples
“My cat's behavior is such an enigma - she loves tuna but runs away when I open a can.”
“The ancient civilization left behind many enigmas that archaeologists are still trying to solve.”
“Einstein was an enigma to his neighbors - they thought he was just a weird guy who never combed his hair.”
“The success of that terrible movie remains an enigma to film critics worldwide.”
📚Related Words
Synonyms
Antonyms
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