enigma
Translation
enigma, mystery, puzzle
Examples
The girl's strange behavior was an enigma.
The girl's strange behaviour was an enigma.
Why he left so suddenly is an enigma to us.
Why he left so suddenly is an enigma to us.
Grammar Patterns
an enigma ((to sb.)) a mystery to someone His decision remains an enigma to me.
Similar Words
Synonyms: mystery, puzzle, riddle
Etymology
From Greek 'ainigma' meaning 'riddle', from 'ainissesthai' meaning 'to speak in riddles'.
Memory Tips
Think of the 'Enigma machine' from WWII, which was a complex puzzle or mystery to decode.