mystique
Americannoun
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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.
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an aura of mystery or mystical power surrounding a particular occupation or pursuit.
the mystique of nuclear science.
noun
Etymology
Origin of mystique
1890–95; < French (adj.); mystic
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.
Despite being so vocal, Cudi still retains a mystique quality that fascinates fans.
From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 1, 2026
Sharing food with others has also helped to take away the "mystique" that others may associate with Muslims, he said.
From BBC • Mar. 20, 2026
The Kennedy mystique is strong in this one.
From Slate • Feb. 14, 2026
Melania’s defining characteristic is absence — and it’s done nothing to cultivate a sense of mystique for the first lady.
From Salon • Jan. 31, 2026
A mystique built up around his calculus class—if you could make it through there, you had truly accomplished something spectacular, something no one thought you could do—and success bred more success.
From "Friday Night Lights: A Town, A Team, And A Dream" by H.G. Bissinger
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
