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Definition of mystify

mystify

/ˈmɪs.tɪ.faɪ/
mys · ti · fy
Adverb:mystifyingly
•
Adjective:mystifying
•
Past Simple:mystified
•
Past Participle:mystified
•
Present Participle:mystifying
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mystify Lexical Profile

mystify Game Scores & Validity

• verb

1

To utterly bewilder, perplex, or confuse someone by being difficult to understand or explain.

Example

"The sudden disappearance of the ancient civilization continues to mystify historians and archaeologists."

2

To make something obscure, secretive, or surrounded by an air of mystery.

Example

"Financial jargon often serves to mystify basic economic concepts that are actually quite straightforward."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• Rhymes for mystify

• Nearby Words

mystical
mystically
mysticism
mystify
mystifying
mystifyingly
mystique

Word Origin & Etymology

Borrowed in the early 19th century from French 'mystifier', derived from the stem of 'mystique' ('mystic') or 'mystère' ('mystery'), and ultimately tracing back to Ancient Greek 'mystēs' ('one who has been initiated into secrets').

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Mystify. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/mystify
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