Definitions

cryptic

[krip-tik] / ˈkrɪp tɪk /

ADJECTIVE

secret; obscure in meaning

Synonyms

STRONGEST

ambiguous arcane enigmatic equivocal incomprehensible mysterious strange vague veiled

WEAK

Delphian Delphic abstruse apocryphal cabalistic dark esoteric evasive hidden inexplicable murky mystic mystical mystifying occult opaque oracular perplexing puzzling recondite secretive tenebrous unclear unfathomable uninformative

Antonyms

STRONGEST

certain clear common definite known normal obvious plain sure

WEAK

seen straightforward

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.

Cryptic, perhaps, but the beginning of the end for the Italian, as those in charge at Chelsea took a dim view of his public expression of discontent.

From BBC • Apr. 22, 2026

Cryptic pregnancies are more common among very young mothers, as well as those who may have other health conditions that mask pregnancy symptoms such as nausea, exhaustion and even missed periods.

From Los Angeles Times • Aug. 29, 2025

Cryptic, uncapitalized, and without a whisper of bedside manner, the messily typed diagnosis was grim: “You have e coli … i hope you didn’t go to italy … we need to txt with antibiotics.”

From Slate • Jan. 2, 2025

Cryptic diversity of cellulose-degrading gut bacteria in industrialized humans.

From Science Daily • Mar. 18, 2024

Cryptic notes scrawled on alley walls above where I slept.

From "Legend" by Marie Lu

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