Dictionary

enigmatic

adjective enig·mat·ic \ˌe-(ˌ)nig-ˈma-tik also ˌē-(ˌ)nig-\

: full of mystery and difficult to understand

Full Definition of ENIGMATIC

:  of, relating to, or resembling an enigma :  mysterious
enig·mat·i·cal·ly \-ti-k(ə-)lē\ adverb

Variants of ENIGMATIC

enig·mat·ic also enig·mat·i·cal \-ti-kəl\
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Examples of ENIGMATIC

  1. Space seethes with an enormous enigmatic energy, and, each second, trillions of cubic light-years more of it materializes from nothingness. —Bob Berman, Astronomy, November 2007

Origin of ENIGMATIC

(see enigma)
First Known Use: 1609

Synonym Discussion of ENIGMATIC

obscure, dark, vague, enigmatic, cryptic, ambiguous, equivocal mean not clearly understandable. obscure implies a hiding or veiling of meaning through some inadequacy of expression or withholding of full knowledge <obscure poems>. dark implies an imperfect or clouded revelation often with ominous or sinister suggestion <muttered dark hints of revenge>. vague implies a lack of clear formulation due to inadequate conception or consideration <a vague sense of obligation>. enigmatic stresses a puzzling, mystifying quality <enigmatic occult writings>. cryptic implies a purposely concealed meaning <cryptic hints of hidden treasure>. ambiguous applies to language capable of more than one interpretation <an ambiguous directive>. equivocal applies to language left open to differing interpretations with the intention of deceiving or evading <moral precepts with equivocal phrasing>.

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