cryptic
Translation
cryptic, mysterious, puzzling
Examples
He sent a cryptic message.
He sent a cryptic message.
Her cryptic smile made me nervous.
Her cryptic smile made me nervous.
Grammar Patterns
((cryptic)) ((noun)) having a meaning that is mysterious or obscure The cryptic note was hard to understand.
Similar Words
Synonyms: mysterious, enigmatic, puzzling; Antonyms: clear, straightforward
Etymology
From Greek 'kryptos' meaning 'hidden'. It shares a root with 'crypt', a hidden chamber.
Memory Tips
Think of a 'crypt' where secrets are buried. A 'cryptic' message is like a secret buried in words.