CRYPTIC Synonyms: 143 Similar and Opposite Words

cryptic

adjective

ˈkrip-tik

Definition of cryptic next

as in mysterious

being beyond one's powers to know, understand, or explain puzzled by the cryptic e-mail message left on his computer

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

as in ambiguous

having an often intentionally veiled or uncertain meaning the oracle offered only cryptic predictions that could be interpreted any number of different ways

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Synonym Chooser

How is the word cryptic different from other adjectives like it?

Some common synonyms of cryptic are ambiguous, dark, enigmatic, equivocal, obscure, and vague. While all these words mean "not clearly understandable," cryptic implies a purposely concealed meaning.

cryptic hints of hidden treasure

When is it sensible to use ambiguous instead of cryptic?

While the synonyms ambiguous and cryptic are close in meaning, ambiguous applies to language capable of more than one interpretation.

an ambiguous directive

In what contexts can dark take the place of cryptic?

The words dark and cryptic can be used in similar contexts, but dark implies an imperfect or clouded revelation often with ominous or sinister suggestion.

muttered dark hints of revenge

When might enigmatic be a better fit than cryptic?

The words enigmatic and cryptic are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, enigmatic stresses a puzzling, mystifying quality.

enigmatic occult writings

When can equivocal be used instead of cryptic?

Although the words equivocal and cryptic have much in common, equivocal applies to language left open to differing interpretations with the intention of deceiving or evading.

moral precepts with equivocal phrasing

When would obscure be a good substitute for cryptic?

While in some cases nearly identical to cryptic, obscure implies a hiding or veiling of meaning through some inadequacy of expression or withholding of full knowledge.

obscure poems

When could vague be used to replace cryptic?

The synonyms vague and cryptic are sometimes interchangeable, but vague implies a lack of clear formulation due to inadequate conception or consideration.

a vague sense of obligation

Examples Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of cryptic After all, there are so many mysteries and most of the clues up this point have been cryptic at best. —

Erik Kain, Forbes, 27 Nov. 2024 That aggressive pursuit seems especially pointless in the (still very cryptic) big picture scope that Tsuta displays — the film transporting into 35mm color film, widescreen landscape shots showing dilapidated buildings and other dead things while the rest of nature carries on. —

Kambole Campbell, IndieWire, 5 Nov. 2024 The cryptic emails would arrive just before bedtime: DON’T DELETE THIS!! —

Alyssa Goldberg, USA TODAY, 25 Nov. 2024 Watch on Deadline The film will explore the dramatic events that led O’Hagan to investigate the mysterious figure known only as Satoshi Nakamoto, and his pursuit to uncover the true identity of the cryptic inventor behind Bitcoin. —

Justin Kroll, Deadline, 25 Nov. 2024 See all Example Sentences for cryptic

Recent Examples of Synonyms for cryptic

Adjective

The mysterious reply sparked a flurry of additional attempts from users on Reddit to get the artificial intelligence tool to say the name – all to no avail.

Eric Lagatta, USA TODAY, 2 Dec. 2024
The agent, who leads a double life disguised from her family, is then protected by the mysterious Sam, played by Whishaw.

Max Goldbart, Deadline, 2 Dec. 2024