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enigma
/ɪˈnɪɡmə/
mystery
The disappearance of the ancient artifact remains an enigma that historians have yet to solve.
The artifact's disappearance is a mystery that no one has been able to explain.
formal
a person or thing that is mysterious, puzzling, or difficult to understand
Her past is an enigma wrapped in a riddle, and no one knows what really happened.
Her past is completely mysterious and unexplained.
The scientist's research on dark matter presents an enigma that challenges existing theories.
The research on dark matter is a puzzling problem that current theories cannot explain.
Often used to describe something that is not only unknown but also inherently difficult to decipher.
Collocations
solve an enigmato find the answer to a mysteryan enigma wrapped in mysterysomething extremely mysterious and puzzling
Related Phrases
Pro Tip
Avoid overusing 'enigma'
While 'enigma' is a powerful word, it is often misused to describe simple mysteries. Reserve it for situations where the mystery is profound, complex, or intellectually challenging.
Gold Rule
Use 'enigma' for profound mysteries
Reserve 'enigma' for mysteries that are not only unsolved but also inherently difficult to decipher, such as scientific puzzles or deep personal secrets.
Word Origin
From Latin *aenigma*, from Greek *aínigma* (αἴνιγμα), meaning 'a dark saying' or 'riddle', derived from *ainíssesthai* ('to speak in riddles'). The word entered English in the late 17th century with the sense of a puzzling statement or situation.
Usage Notes
Used to describe something that is not just unknown but also inherently complex or difficult to unravel. Often carries a slightly formal or literary tone.
Word Breakdown
aenigma
Latin root meaning 'riddle' or 'dark saying'
root-a
suffix forming abstract nouns in Latin
suffixEnglish Dictionary