Mysterious: meaning, definitions and examples

Used when something or someone is not easily explained or understood, often invoking a sense of curiosity or fascination.

• The old house had a mysterious aura, as if it held countless secrets
• He gave her a mysterious smile that she couldn't quite interpret

Used to describe something or someone that is mysterious and difficult to understand, often with a sense of intrigue.

• The artist was known for his enigmatic personality and reclusive lifestyle
• Her enigmatic expression made it hard to tell what she was really thinking

Used for situations or problems that are confusing and difficult to understand or solve.

• The math problem was puzzling and took hours to solve
• Her sudden disappearance was puzzling to her friends and family

Used to describe something that is intentionally obscure or difficult to understand, often in a coded or hidden way.

• She left a cryptic note on the table that nobody could decipher
• The professor's explanation of the theory was so cryptic that few students could follow it

Typically used for situations or statements that can be understood in more than one way and lack clear meaning.

• His answers in the interview were ambiguous, leaving everyone confused about his stance
• The ending of the movie was ambiguous, sparking debates among the viewers

Used when something is difficult to understand, is secretive, or has an element of the unknown.

• The forest at night has a mysterious aura.
• He had a mysterious past that no one knew about.

Used when something catches your interest in an unusual or surprising way, making you curious. Often implies a sense of complexity or unexpectedness.

• The plot of the novel was very intriguing.
• There's something intriguing about the way she thinks.

Used when something is extremely interesting and holds your attention.

• The documentary on space exploration was fascinating.
• She had a fascinating collection of rare books.

Used when something or someone holds your attention completely because it is so interesting or beautiful.

• The movie was so captivating that no one left their seat.
• He found her story absolutely captivating.

Used to describe something that is so attractive or interesting that it seems to have a magical effect on people. Often used to describe beauty.

• She had a bewitching smile that no one could resist.
• The bewitching melody captivated the entire audience.