enigma Meaning, Definition & Usage

noun something that baffles understanding and cannot be explained
mystery; secret; closed book.
- how it got out is a mystery
- it remains one of nature's secrets
noun a difficult problem
riddle; conundrum; brain-teaser.

L. aenigma, Gr. , fr. to speak darkly, fr. tale, fable.

plural Enigmas

A dark, obscure, or inexplicable saying; a riddle; a statement, the hidden meaning of which is to be discovered or guessed.
A custom was among the ancients of proposing an enigma at festivals. Pope.
An action, mode of action, or thing, which cannot be satisfactorily explained; a puzzle; as, his conduct is an enigma.