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 sudden departure of new cast member Helena Bonham Carter just days into shooting has become the first great enigma of this season, leaving the French Riviera production in a scenario as uncertain as one of Mike White's scripts. —Diego Parrado, Vanity Fair, 26 Apr. 2026

Bob Gray is one of the big enigmas in the book that are intentionally put there to create tension and are never solved. —Scott Huver, Deadline, 26 Apr. 2026

Herzog naturally plays up the enigma at hand with epic grandeur, occasionally overdoing it but usually hitting the mark. —Eric Kohn, IndieWire, 24 Apr. 2026

Suga was an enigma to the producers. —Brian Hiatt, Rolling Stone, 13 Apr. 2026

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