mystique

noun

mys·​tique mi-ˈstēk How to pronounce mystique (audio)
Synonyms of mystique
1
: an air or attitude of mystery (see mystery entry 1 sense 1) and reverence developing around something or someone
the legendary singer's mystique
the mystique of the liturgy
2
: the special esoteric skill essential in a calling or activity
the mystique of yoga
the mystique of hang gliding

Examples of mystique in a Sentence

There's a certain mystique to people who fight fires. No one has been able to copy the legendary singer's mystique. the mystique of mountain climbing
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Twenty-seven years later, the attack on a school in the Denver suburbs retains an archetypal mystique for generations of troubled young people. — Rachel Monroe, New Yorker, 23 Oct. 2026 That straightforward approach to his music and presentation has cost him in terms of the aura and mystique often treated as a prerequisite for a rap star, but is a reflection of the perspective and inner peace he’s gained and documented in his work. — Preezy Brown, Rolling Stone, 20 Oct. 2026 The mystique is gone In 2010, making a movie about Facebook’s origins was truly bold. — Andrew McGowan, Fortune, 13 Oct. 2026 Built to echo the Andean cross, the property is also deeply imbued in the culture and mystique of the area – to that end, Shamans are on call for private tours. — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 6 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for mystique

Word History

Etymology

borrowed from French, derivative of mystique, adjective, "magical, mystical," going back to Middle French, "having a hidden meaning," borrowed from Latin mysticus "secret" — more at mystic entry 1

First Known Use

1891, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of mystique was in 1891

Rhymes for mystique

See All Rhymes for mystique

Browse Nearby Words

mystifyingly
mystique
myth
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Mystique.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/mystique. Accessed 27 Oct. 2026.

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Kids Definition

mystique

noun
mys·​tique mis-ˈtēk How to pronounce mystique (audio)
: an attitude of mystery and respect developing around something or someone
the mystique of mountain climbing

More from Merriam-Webster on mystique

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