Mystery

Definition

Mystery is a noun. It refers to something that is difficult or impossible to understand, explain, or identify. It can also describe a genre of literature or film involving crime or suspense.

Parts of Speech

• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈmɪs.tə.ri/, /ˈmɪs.tri/
• Respelling: MIS-tuh-ree, MIS-tree

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈmɪs.tə.ri/, /ˈmɪs.tri/
• Respelling: MIS-tuh-ree, MIS-tree

Etymology

The word "mystery" originates from the Old French "mistere," which came from the Latin "mysterium," meaning "secret rite" or "secret thing." This term is rooted in the Greek "mystērion," referring to secret religious rites and teachings.

Derivatives

• Mysterious (adjective)
• Mysteriously (adverb)
• Mystification (noun)
• Mystify (verb)
• Mystic (noun/adjective)

Synonyms

• Enigma
• Puzzle
• Riddle

Antonyms

• Clarity
• Solution
• Understanding

Usage

The term "mystery" is used in various contexts, such as describing unknown phenomena, literary works, or religious concepts. For example, "The origin of the artifact remains a mystery," or "She loves reading mystery novels."

Related Terms

• Secret: Something kept hidden or unexplained.
• Detective: A person or character solving a mystery.
• Suspense: A feeling of excitement or anxiety regarding an uncertain outcome.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• Something difficult or impossible to understand or explain:
  • Example: "The disappearance of the plane is still a mystery."
• A genre of literature or film involving crime or suspense:
  • Example: "She enjoys reading mystery novels about detectives."
• A religious truth known only by divine revelation:
  • Example: "The doctrine of the Trinity is a sacred mystery in Christianity."