noun
also ae·nig·ma ə̇ˈnigmə, ēˈ-, eˈ- sometimes ˈenigmə or ˈenēg-
( plural enigmas -məz ; also enigma·ta -məd.ə, -mətə)
Etymology: Latin aenigma, from Greek ainigma, from ainissesthai to speak in riddles, from ainos tale, fable
1. : an intentionally obscure statement (as a riddle or complex metaphor) that depends for full comprehension on the alertness and ingenuity of the hearer or reader ; broadly : an obscure speech or writing
the new … novel is a brilliant enigma — Mark Schorer
2. : an inexplicable circumstance, event, or occurrence
the enigma of human reasons
: an unsolved problem
the enigmas of American prehistory
: mystery
3. : a person not readily understood : an inscrutable person ; often : one that exhibits an incomprehensible mixture of opposed qualities
Synonyms: see mystery