mystery, problem, enigma, riddle, puzzle mean something which baffles or perplexes. mystery applies to what cannot be fully understood by reason or less strictly to whatever resists or defies explanation. problem applies to a question or difficulty calling for a solution or causing concern.

Understanding the Context

MYSTERY definition: 1. something strange or not known that has not yet been explained or understood: 2. a book, film…. Learn more.

Key Insights

Mystery novels are often called “whodunnits” because they turn the reader into a detective trying to figure out the who, what, when, and how of a particular crime. Definition of mystery noun in Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary. Meaning, pronunciation, picture, example sentences, grammar, usage notes, synonyms and more. Mystery is a fiction genre where the nature of an event, often a murder or other crime, remains mysterious until the end of the story. Often within a closed circle of suspects, each suspect is usually provided with a credible motive and a reasonable opportunity for committing the crime.

Final Thoughts

mystery - Traces back to Greek mustikos, "secret," and musterion, "secret rites"; the lesser-known meaning of mystery as "handicraft; art" is part of the phrase "mystery play." At its core, mystery is a literary technique that uses unanswered questions and concealed information to create suspense, intrigue, and a desire for resolution in the reader. It isn’t confined to detective stories; it is a broader tool that authors employ to keep us engaged and questioning. mystery (countable and uncountable, plural mysteries) The truth behind the events remains a mystery. The case was that of a murder. It had an element of mystery about it, however, which was puzzling the authorities. A turban and loincloth soaked in blood had been found; also a staff.