mystify
Americanverb (used with object)
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to perplex, puzzle, or baffle; defy the understanding of.
The judge's decision in this case completely mystifies me, given all the evidence.
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to perplex (a person) by playing upon their ignorance, gullibility, or naiveté; bewilder purposely.
It's the perfect propaganda to mystify and demoralize voters.
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to involve in mystery or obscurity.
These vague terms serve only to further mystify the concept for readers.
verb
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to confuse, bewilder, or puzzle
-
to make mysterious or obscure
Other Word Forms
- mystification noun
- mystifiedly adverb
- mystifier noun
- mystifying adjective
- mystifyingly adverb
- overmystify verb (used with object)
- unmystified adjective
Etymology
Origin of mystify
First recorded in 1805–15; from French mystifier, equivalent to mysti- (irregular combining form of mystique mystic ( def. ) or mystère mystery 1 ( def. ) ) + -fier -fy ( def. )
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
The Cubs, meanwhile, managed only one hit after the third inning as four Brewers relievers -- Jacob Misiorowski, Aaron Ashby, rookie Chad Patrick and Abner Uribe -- combined to mystify Chicago batters to the finish.
From Barron's • Oct. 12, 2025
“It may mystify some people, but there is such demand for these sorts of things,” Fyall said.
From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 20, 2025
The tackling issues Sunday seemed to mystify defensive coordinator Clint Hurtt, who the previous week lauded the team’s recent improvement.
From Seattle Times • Jan. 5, 2024
Here, senior writer Mary Elizabeth Williams amps up the classic with an unexpected ingredient that adds a sharp, bright note that will both mystify and satisfy.
From Salon • Dec. 28, 2022
Even today the artist remains a magician whose work can mystify and move us—an embarrassing fact to civilized people, who do not readily relinquish their veneer of rational control.
From "History of Art, Volume 1" by H.W. Janson
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
