mystique

noun

mys·​tique mi-ˈstēk 

1

: an air or attitude of mystery (see mystery entry 1 sense 1) and reverence developing around something or someone

the legendary singer's mystique

the mystique of the liturgy

2

: the special esoteric skill essential in a calling or activity

the mystique of yoga

the mystique of hang gliding

Examples of mystique in a Sentence

There's a certain mystique to people who fight fires.

No one has been able to copy the legendary singer's mystique.

the mystique of mountain climbing

Recent Examples on the Web

The six-episode thriller paints an eerie image of small-town life in Newfoundland, and viewers are intrigued by the mystique of the striking Canadian backdrop. — Rachel Chang, Condé Nast Traveler, 3 Nov. 2026

Meanwhile, junior quarterback Marion Persich is trying to revive the Morris mystique, and the undefeated Warriors’ most competitive game was a 17-point win over Simeon. — Mike McGraw, Chicago Tribune, 2 Nov. 2026

The station’s mystique grew when some of the hottest bands of the time dropped by to play live sets, including the Red Hot Chili Peppers, who squeezed into the hallway to play. — Pat Saperstein, Variety, 27 Oct. 2026

Whether by marketing or mystique, A24 has been surfing the generational Zeitgeist, consistently drawing in the kind of younger viewers who had previously abandoned the multiplex for other pursuits. — Chris Lee, Vulture, 26 Oct. 2026

Word History

Etymology

borrowed from French, derivative of mystique, adjective, "magical, mystical," going back to Middle French, "having a hidden meaning," borrowed from Latin mysticus "secret" — more at mystic entry 1

First Known Use

1891, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for mystique

• antique
• batik
• bespeak
• boutique
• cacique
• comique
• critique
• grosbeak
• midweek
• oblique
• physique
• pratique

Kids Definition

mystique

noun

mys·​tique mis-ˈtēk 

: an attitude of mystery and respect developing around something or someone

the mystique of mountain climbing