cryptic
ˈkrɪptɪk
Definition Synonyms

Definition of cryptic - Reverso English Dictionary

Adjective

1.
languagehaving a hidden or secret meaning
  • The letter was cryptic and hard to decipher.
enigmatic mysterious obscure
2.
mysteryhaving a meaning that is mysterious or obscure
  • His cryptic message left everyone puzzled.
enigmatic mysterious obscure
3.
encryptionTECH.involving use of a code or cipherTECH.
  • The cryptic message required a key to unlock.
enigmatic mysterious puzzling
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Expressions with cryptic

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crossword with tricky clues using puns, misdirection, and hidden meanings
She solves a cryptic crossword each morning on the train.
coloring that helps animals hide from predators
The chameleon uses cryptic coloration to blend into its surroundings.

Origin of cryptic

Greek, 'kryptos' (hidden)

Terms with cryptic included in their meaning

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language
converted from cryptic to intelligible language
music
musical canon with cryptic entry symbols
mystery
to give cryptic or enigmatic statements
music
musical canon with cryptic symbols for entrances
music
musical canon with cryptic entry symbols
animal
nocturnal bird with large eyes and cryptic feathers
music
musical canon with cryptic symbols for entrances
mystery
enigmatic or cryptic like the oracles of Delphi

Examples of cryptic in a sentence

  • The ancient symbols were cryptic to the untrained eye.
  • The cryptic note baffled the detectives.
  • She gave a cryptic smile and walked away.
  • The cryptic instructions puzzled everyone.
  • She sent a cryptic email to her colleague.

View all translations of cryptic

Click below to see the appropriate translations facing each meaning.
  1. French:cryptique, obscur, ...
  2. German:rätselhaft, verschlüsselt, ...
  3. Italian:criptico, misterioso, ...
  4. Spanish:críptico, codificado, ...
  5. Portuguese:críptico, misterioso, ...
  6. Chinese:隐晦的, 加密的, ...
  7. Japanese:謎めいた, 暗号的な, ...
  8. Arabic:غَامِض, مُغْلَق, ...
  9. Hebrew:חִידָתִי, מֻצְפָּן, ...
  10. Russian:загадочный, криптографический, ...
  11. Ukrainian:загадковий, криптографічний, ...
  12. Hindi:गूढ़, अबूझ, ...
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