Synonyms of enigma

enigma

noun

i-ˈnig-mə 

as in mystery

something hard to understand or explain

how Thomas Jefferson could be both a slaveholder and a champion of liberty remains an enigma

Synonyms & Similar Words

• mystery
• puzzle
• riddle
• conundrum
• why
• secret
• mystification
• puzzlement
• problem
• closed book
• head-scratcher
• perplexity
• challenge
• matter
• poser
• stumper
• trouble
• brainteaser
• case
• knot

Synonym Chooser

How does the noun enigma differ from other similar words?

Some common synonyms of enigma are mystery, problem, puzzle, and riddle. While all these words mean "something which baffles or perplexes," enigma applies to utterance or behavior that is very difficult to interpret.

his suicide remains an enigma

When would mystery be a good substitute for enigma?

The words mystery and enigma can be used in similar contexts, but mystery applies to what cannot be fully understood by reason or less strictly to whatever resists or defies explanation.

the mystery of the stone monoliths

When is it sensible to use problem instead of enigma?

In some situations, the words problem and enigma are roughly equivalent. However, problem applies to a question or difficulty calling for a solution or causing concern.

problems created by high technology

Where would puzzle be a reasonable alternative to enigma?

The words puzzle and enigma are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, puzzle applies to an enigma or problem that challenges ingenuity for its solution.

the thief's motives were a puzzle for the police

When is riddle a more appropriate choice than enigma?

The meanings of riddle and enigma largely overlap; however, riddle suggests an enigma or problem involving paradox or apparent contradiction.

the riddle of the reclusive pop star

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of enigma

The drawer at the bottom of your oven can be a surprising enigma. — Ashley Chalmers, The Spruce, 21 July 2026

In the first knockout stage match in the venue, Haaland’s winner in the 86th minute over Ivory Coast offered a lens into Norway’s rich fan tradition, and the enigma that is Haaland himself. — Nick Harris, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 15 July 2026

Physicists refer to this process as collapse, but scientists have not yet solved the fundamental enigma that drives this phenomenon. — Aldo Romero, The Conversation, 15 July 2026

SpaceX, however, took the flexible lockup approach, wrapped it in a puzzle, strapped it to an enigma, and sent it to live in a colony on Mars. — Amanda Gerut, Fortune, 3 July 2026

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