# mystique

/mɪˈstik/ (US) · /mɪstˈiːk/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/mystique
Updated: 2026-05-18

## Definition

a special quality that makes someone or something seem very mysterious, powerful, or difficult to understand.

For teachers: an aura of mystery, power, or secrecy that surrounds a person, place, or thing. Often used to describe a quality that is difficult to define or explain.

## Examples

- The old castle has a strong sense of mystique.
- The brand built its success on a carefully crafted mystique that kept customers guessing about its origins.
- The author's early works were characterized by a deep sense of mystique, leaving readers to wonder about the true nature of the protagonist's motivations.

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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.