intrigue
Intrigue (noun) means a secret plot or scheme, often involving deception. Example: “The palace was full of political intrigue and backstabbing.”
How to use intrigue
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishEither a secretive scheme (noun) or the act of fascinating someone (verb).
Word forms
intrigued past tense, intrigues plural, intrigues singular
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
The palace was full of political _____ and backstabbing.
Etymology
From French intrigue, ultimately from Latin intrīcō ("to entangle, perplex") — the same root that gives us "intricate."
Synonyms
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Rhymes for intrigue
See all rhymes for intrigue →Frequently asked questions
What does “intrigue” mean?
The word “intrigue” means a secret plot or scheme, often involving deception. In plain terms, either a secretive scheme (noun) or the act of fascinating someone (verb).
How do you pronounce “intrigue”?
“Intrigue” is pronounced IHNT-reeg (/ˈɪntɹiːɡ/ in IPA).
How do you use “intrigue” in a sentence?
Here is “intrigue” used in a sentence: “The palace was full of political intrigue and backstabbing.”
What part of speech is “intrigue”?
Depending on how it is used, “intrigue” can be a noun and a verb.
Where does the word “intrigue” come from?
The word “intrigue” comes from Latin. From French intrigue, ultimately from Latin intrīcō ("to entangle, perplex") — the same root that gives us "intricate.".
Is “intrigue” a common word?
“Intrigue” is an uncommon word in modern English.
How many meanings does “intrigue” have?
“Intrigue” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a secret plot or scheme, often involving deception.