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View synonyms for mystify

mystify

[mis-tuh-fahy]

verb (used with object)

mystified, mystifying 
  1. to perplex, puzzle, or baffle; defy the understanding of.

    The judge's decision in this case completely mystifies me, given all the evidence.

  2. to perplex (a person) by playing upon their ignorance, gullibility, or naiveté; bewilder purposely.

    It's the perfect propaganda to mystify and demoralize voters.

    Synonyms: puzzle, elude, mislead, fool
  3. to involve in mystery or obscurity.

    These vague terms serve only to further mystify the concept for readers.



mystify

/ ˈmɪstɪˌfaɪ /

verb

  1. to confuse, bewilder, or puzzle

  2. to make mysterious or obscure

“Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged” 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012
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Other Word Forms

  • mystifyingly adverb
  • mystifying adjective
  • mystification noun
  • mystifier noun
  • mystifiedly adverb
  • overmystify verb (used with object)
  • unmystified adjective
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Word History and Origins

Origin of mystify1

First recorded in 1805–15; from French mystifier, equivalent to mysti- (irregular combining form of mystique mystic ( def. ) or mystère mystery 1 ( def. ) ) + -fier -fy ( def. )
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Word History and Origins

Origin of mystify1

C19: from French mystifier, from mystère mystery 1 or mystique mystic
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Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

They also say they are "mystified" by their detention, with Mr Reynolds adding that they were both mostly treated with respect but felt "a huge powerlessness".

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Its translucent-white flesh — which is soft yet has a bite to it — tastes mystifying: floral with notes of rose, pear and strawberry.

Read more on Salon

It’s an intriguing addition to the canon, but for mere mortals who haven’t survived abusive, plagiaristic and mystifying advisors to earn Oxbridge degrees — or even just bad bosses — it might be unrelatable.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

As warmer spotlights go, “It’s Never Over, Jeff Buckley” may never fully expunge what maddens and mystifies about the untimely end of troubled souls.

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In the weeks since, she’s only doubled down with mystifying half-comments and quotes of questionable veracity in other publications.

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mystificationmystique