mystique

noun

mys·​tique mi-ˈstēk 

1

: an air or attitude of mystery (see mystery entry 1 sense 1) and reverence developing around something or someone

the legendary singer's mystique

the mystique of the liturgy

2

: the special esoteric skill essential in a calling or activity

the mystique of yoga

the mystique of hang gliding

Examples of mystique in a Sentence

There's a certain mystique to people who fight fires.

No one has been able to copy the legendary singer's mystique.

the mystique of mountain climbing

Recent Examples on the Web

The assassination records are just the latest in Trump’s efforts, whether they be born of obsession or something else, to shift public focus from the Camelot mystique and the myriad ways Kennedy’s presidency uplifted, inspired, and revolutionized American society. —Alexis Coe, Rolling Stone, 20 Mar. 2025

In the world of high-end pets, few creatures hold the status and mystique of koi fish. —Scott Travers, Forbes, 14 Mar. 2025

His words, though often sparse and cryptic, usually mattered more than those of his counterparts, fueling a political mystique of infallibility. —Megan Crepeau, Chicago Tribune, 16 Feb. 2025

The jokes about Messi running Inter Miami as both a sporting director and CEO have only added to his mystique in the land of celebrity. —Felipe Cardenas, The Athletic, 26 Feb. 2025

Word History

Etymology

borrowed from French, derivative of mystique, adjective, "magical, mystical," going back to Middle French, "having a hidden meaning," borrowed from Latin mysticus "secret" — more at mystic entry 1

First Known Use

1891, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for mystique

• antique
• batik
• bespeak
• boutique
• cacique
• comique
• critique
• grosbeak
• midweek
• oblique
• physique
• pratique

Kids Definition

mystique

noun

mys·​tique mis-ˈtēk 

: an attitude of mystery and respect developing around something or someone

the mystique of mountain climbing