enigma
“enigma” means “enigma” in Spanish (a puzzling or inexplicable occurrence or person).
enigma
Also: mystery, riddle
📝 In Action
Su vida privada siempre ha sido un enigma para la prensa.
B1His private life has always been an enigma to the press.
Resolver el enigma del universo es el sueño de muchos científicos.
B2Solving the mystery of the universe is the dream of many scientists.
Nadie pudo descifrar el enigma que dejó el abuelo en su testamento.
C1No one could decipher the riddle that the grandfather left in his will.
✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: enigma
Question 1 of 3
Which of these is the correct way to say 'the enigma'?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
🎵 Rhymes▼
📚 Etymology▼
From the Greek word 'ainigma', which describes a dark or obscure saying/riddle. It passed through Latin before becoming the Spanish word we use today.
First recorded: 15th century
Cognates (Related words)
💡 Master Spanish
Take your Spanish to the next level. Read 200+ illustrated and narrated Spanish stories tailored to your level with the Inklingo app!
Frequently Asked Questions
Is 'enigma' more formal than 'misterio'?
Yes, 'enigma' sounds a bit more intellectual or literary than 'misterio', though they are often interchangeable.
Why is it masculine if it ends in 'a'?
Many Spanish words of Greek origin ending in '-ma' (like drama, tema, and enigma) are masculine.
Can I use 'enigma' for a math problem?
Only if it is incredibly confusing and seems unsolvable. For standard math, use 'problema' or 'incógnita'.