Definition

Having a meaning that is mysterious or difficult to understand, often intentionally so in order to conceal its true meaning

Pronunciation

US English

UK English

Part of speech

Adjective

Synonyms

Enigmatic, obscure, puzzling, mysterious, mystifying, inscrutable

Antonyms

Clear, straightforward, unambiguous, explicit

Example sentences

  • The message was so cryptic that it took us hours to decipher it.
  • The professor’s lecture was filled with cryptic references that only a few students were able to understand.
  • The painting was full of cryptic symbols and hidden meanings that were difficult to decipher.
  • The crossword puzzle was filled with cryptic clues that challenged even the most experienced solvers.

Usage

The word “cryptic” describes something that is mysterious or difficult to understand. It can refer to anything that is intentionally or unintentionally obscure, whether it is a message, a work of art, or a person’s behavior. The word comes from the Greek “kryptos”, meaning hidden or secret.

In everyday usage, “cryptic” often has a negative connotation, as it implies that the thing being described is deliberately obscure or confusing. This can make it difficult for people to understand the true meaning behind the words or actions. For example, a cryptic message might be difficult to understand because it is written in code or uses ambiguous language