adjective
Uncommon
cryptic
KRIHP-tihk
Cryptic (adjective) means having a hidden or puzzling meaning that is not immediately clear. Example: “He left a cryptic note that nobody could quite understand.”
adjective
1
Having a hidden or puzzling meaning that is not immediately clear.
"He left a cryptic note that nobody could quite understand."
"Her cryptic reply only made the mystery deeper."
2
Describing a crossword that uses wordplay, like anagrams or hidden words, rather than plain definitions.
"Cryptic crosswords take much longer to solve than quick ones."
How to use cryptic
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishDeliberately puzzling or hard to interpret, whether in speech, writing, or crossword clues.
Common pairings
cryptic message
cryptic crossword
cryptic clue
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Word forms
- Plural
- cryptics
- Comparative
- more cryptic
- Superlative
- most cryptic
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He left a _____ note that nobody could quite understand.
Etymology
From Greek kryptikos, related to kryptos ("hidden") — the same root as "crypt".
Synonyms
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Rhymes for cryptic
See all rhymes for 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.
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