# riddle wrapped in an enigma

idiom

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/riddle-wrapped-in-an-enigma
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

Something very mysterious and hidden.

## Examples

- His true motives remain a riddle wrapped in an enigma.
- The politician's sudden change of heart is a riddle wrapped in an enigma that confuses his closest supporters.
- The ancient manuscript, filled with cryptic symbols and contradictory historical accounts, remains a riddle wrapped in an enigma for modern scholars.

## Origin

A variation of Winston Churchill's quotation, made in a radio broadcast in October 1939.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.