mystique

[ mi-steek ]

noun

1. a framework of doctrines, ideas, beliefs, or the like, constructed around a person or object, endowing the person or object with enhanced value or profound meaning:

   the mystique of Poe.

2. an aura of mystery or mystical power surrounding a particular occupation or pursuit:

   the mystique of nuclear science.

mystique

/ mɪˈstiːk /

noun

1. an aura of mystery, power, and awe that surrounds a person or thing

   the mystique of computer programming

   the mystique of the theatre

Word History and Origins

Origin of mystique¹

1890–95; < French (adj.); mystic

Word History and Origins

Origin of mystique¹

C20: from French (adj): mystic

Example Sentences

Besides, working with a dog in the forest is part of the mystique.

From Outside Online

As soon as he tells people he lives in Silverton, though, he’s cast in an irresistible halo of secondhand mystique.

From Outside Online

The job’s mystique has made it a pop culture perennial, most recently in HBO’s buzzy mystery-thriller, “The Flight Attendant,” whose convoluted plot hinges on the title character’s mobility.

From Washington Post

Like her, surfing seemed wrapped in mystique, perhaps slightly dangerous, and ultimately unattainable.

From Outside Online

I wrote in 2019 that there is a certain mystique attached to the concept of the hot goalie in the NHL playoffs.

From FiveThirtyEight

All of the big cats have a special mystique, but perhaps none more so than the tiger.

From The Daily Beast

Language was no barrier; just about every tongue on the planet was babbling away, caught up in the elaborate mystique of a cult.

From The Daily Beast

Even a century after his heyday, Houdini has maintained the same mystique he enjoyed while living.

From The Daily Beast

Betty Friedan put the feelings of our mothers to words, publishing The Feminine Mystique.

From The Daily Beast

“We were raised with this mystique about the accident being the chink in this important legacy,” she says.

From The Daily Beast

Gebhards Italie mystique is interesting in connection with Francis.

From Project Gutenberg

Ce mystique encloîtré, fier de son indolence Tranquille, au sein de Dieu.

From Project Gutenberg

In the palm of another of his hands the diamond—carr mystique—is displayed.

From Project Gutenberg