Langimage
English

mystify

|mys/ti/fy|

B2

/ˈmɪs.tɪ.faɪ/

causing confusion

Etymology
Etymology Information

'mystify' originates from the French word 'mystifier,' which is derived from 'mystère,' meaning 'mystery.'

Historical Evolution

'mystifier' transformed into the English word 'mystify' in the 19th century.

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'to make mysterious,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'to bewilder or puzzle.'

Meanings by Part of Speech

Verb 1

to make something difficult to understand or explain.

The magician's tricks mystify the audience.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Verb 2

to bewilder or puzzle someone.

The complex instructions mystified the new employee.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:45