Cryptic - Meaning, Definition & English Examples
Cryptic means mysterious or difficult to understand, often intentionally so. It describes something with hidden meaning, like a puzzling message or an obscure clue designed to confuse or intrigue.
Definition:
Having a meaning that is mysterious or obscure, often intentionally so.
Synonyms:
enigmatic, puzzling, obscure, arcane
Part of Speech:
adjective
Antonyms:
clear, straightforward
Common Collocations:
cryptic message, cryptic crossword, cryptic remark, cryptic smile
Derivatives:
cryptically, crypticness
Usage Tips:
Use "cryptic" to describe something deliberately puzzling or hard to understand, like a riddle or a vague comment.
Common Phrases:
cryptic clue, cryptic smile, keep it cryptic
Etymology:
From Greek "kryptikos," meaning "hidden" or "secret," derived from "kryptos" (concealed).
Examples:
- 1. The detective found a cryptic note at the crime scene.
- 2. Her cryptic smile made me wonder what she was thinking.
- 3. The teacher gave us a cryptic hint about the test questions.
- 4. He left a cryptic message on the board before leaving.