Definition of enigmanext
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

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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

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of enigma Despite the city and Heal the Bay forming a Santa Monica Pier Task Force, adding netting to deter birds, and taking other measures to improve the water quality, the root of the problem remains an enigma. Laylan Connelly, Oc Register, 20 May 2026 Rodgers remains, as always, a bit of an enigma who keeps his cards very close to the vest. CBS News, 19 May 2026 But these sales were still a bit of an enigma to the general public—until recently. Heather Bien, Southern Living, 15 May 2026 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 See All Example Sentences for enigma
Recent Examples of Synonyms for enigma
Noun
  • The delightful and deceptively deep family mystery comedy stars Hugh Jackman as an English shepherd (Hugh Jackman) who is found dead.
    Brian Truitt, USA Today, 26 June 2026
  • Exactly what to expect from Toney, who most received the title of EA Sports College Football 27 cover athlete, remains a bit of mystery.
    Miami Herald, Miami Herald, 25 June 2026
Noun
  • Check out the all new PLAY hub with puzzles, games and more!
    Amaris Encinas, USA Today, 26 June 2026
  • The puzzle-centric attraction features more than 60 physical, mental and locked-room challenges.
    Joe Burbank, The Orlando Sentinel, 26 June 2026
Noun
  • London Falling is an investigation of an inexplicable death told through the lens of parents struggling to solve the riddle of who their son really was.
    Desiree Anello, PEOPLE, 10 June 2026
  • The machine’s repertoire included answers to 12 riddles, passages from books, and laughing, crying and kissing sounds, as well as arias sung in both male and female voices—all feats that Edison’s phonograph would one day be able to accomplish by recording and playing back the human voice.
    Ron Cowen, Scientific American, 3 June 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Enigma.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/enigma. Accessed 27 Jun. 2026.

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