Mystify
['mɪstɪfaɪ] or ['mɪstə'fai]
Definition
(v. t.) To involve in mystery; to make obscure or difficult to understand; as, to mystify a passage of Scripture.
(v. t.) To perplex the mind of; to puzzle; to impose upon the credulity of ; as, to mystify an opponent.
Typed by Blanche
Synonyms and Synonymous
v. a. Perplex, puzzle, bewilder, embarrass, pose.
Editor: Wallace
Synonyms and Antonyms
SYN:Confuse, bamboozle, hoodwink, puzzle, confound, mislead, obfuscate
ANT:Illumine, enlighten, inform, guide
Inputed by Jill
Examples
- Night after night, I record predictions that never come to pass, professions that are never fulfilled, explanations that are only meant to mystify. Charles Dickens. David Copperfield.
- D'Arnot was mystified. Edgar Rice Burroughs. Tarzan of the Apes.
- Miss Rachel has led you off on a false scent, my dear, I replied; but MY nose is not so easily mystified. Wilkie Collins. The Moonstone.
- I asked, mystified that he had found me without a guide. Edgar Rice Burroughs. The Gods of Mars.
- You are up to some mischief, Jo, said Laurie, looking mystified. Louisa May Alcott. Little Women.
- She was mystified; but when she saw the printed words beneath her signature, she felt a cold, clammy chill run up her spine. Edgar Rice Burroughs. Tarzan of the Apes.
- He stood for a few minutes holding the candle aloft, and blinking on our travellers with a dismal and mystified expression that was truly ludicrous. Harriet Beecher Stowe. Uncle Tom's Cabin.
- When it is desired to keep the ingredients of the composition a secret a coloring matter may be added to assist in mystifying. William K. David. Secrets of Wise Men, Chemists and Great Physicians.
Checked by Curtis