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

More important, this latest evolution of strategic warfare builds on the long-standing mystique of airpower as a quick and precise form of warfare that can end conflicts quickly without unnecessary bloodshed or destruction. —Raphael S. Cohen, Foreign Affairs, 18 Feb. 2025

Anyone familiar with the mystique surrounding the Cologne concert will know about Jarrett’s indignation to find not the requested Bösendorfer Grand Imperial on the stage but an out-of-tune baby grand rehearsal piano with only one functioning pedal. —David Rooney, The Hollywood Reporter, 16 Feb. 2025

Ahsoka's first season did a lot to expand on the mystique of the Star Wars galaxy and bring back Star Wars Rebels players in surprising ways. —Fran Ruiz, Space.com, 31 Jan. 2025

Adding to Hermès’ mystique is its signature orange branding, a detail born out of necessity during World War II. —Ty Gaskins, WWD, 20 Dec. 2024

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

Kids Definition

mystique

noun

mys·​tique mis-ˈtēk 

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

the mystique of mountain climbing