cryptic
9 synonyms for cryptic, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Adjective — Having a hidden or puzzling meaning that is not immediately clear.
Synonyms
Everyday swaps
Common words most readers know — safe in any writing.
Less common
Still standard English, but they carry more weight.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
How to use cryptic
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
cryptic message
cryptic crossword
cryptic clue
Etymology
From Greek kryptikos, related to kryptos ("hidden") — the same root as "crypt".
Full origin of cryptic →Frequently asked questions
What does “cryptic” mean?
The word “cryptic” means having a hidden or puzzling meaning that is not immediately clear. In plain terms, deliberately puzzling or hard to interpret, whether in speech, writing, or crossword clues.
How do you pronounce “cryptic”?
“Cryptic” is pronounced KRIHP-tihk (/ˈkɹɪptɪk/ in IPA).
How do you use “cryptic” in a sentence?
Here is “cryptic” used in a sentence: “He left a cryptic note that nobody could quite understand.”
What part of speech is “cryptic”?
“Cryptic” is an adjective.
Where does the word “cryptic” come from?
The word “cryptic” comes from Greek. From Greek kryptikos, related to kryptos ("hidden") — the same root as "crypt".
Is “cryptic” a common word?
“Cryptic” is an uncommon word in modern English.
How many meanings does “cryptic” have?
“Cryptic” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: having a hidden or puzzling meaning that is not immediately clear.
