Definitions Related words Phrases Mentions Lyrics History Colors (New!) Easter eggs (New!)

Literary notes about enigma (AI summary)

In literature, “enigma” functions as a versatile symbol for mystery and complexity, evoking both an elusive puzzle and a deep, often existential, conundrum. Writers frequently use it to illustrate the inscrutable nature of fate, history, and human character—as in the portrayal of irreversible destiny in [1] and the insoluble puzzle introduced in [2]. At times, it even extends into the realm of tangible puzzles, like the literal Enigma Machine used in wartime narratives [3], [4]. Whether serving as a metaphor for the ungraspable aspects of life or as a concrete challenge to be unraveled, the term continues to stimulate reflection and add intricate layers of meaning to literary works.
  1. "Not yourself," answered Smeaton gravely, "but your fate and history are an enigma."
    — from Henry Smeaton: A Jacobite Story of the Reign of George the First. by G. P. R. (George Payne Rainsford) James
  2. [994] We are here brought face to face with an apparently insoluble enigma.
    — from A Popular History of Astronomy During the Nineteenth CenturyFourth Edition by Agnes M. (Agnes Mary) Clerke
  3. Stephenson tells the story of Alan Turing and the Nazi Enigma Machine, turning it into a gripping war-novel that you won't be able to put down.
    — from Little Brother by Cory Doctorow
  4. By getting his hands on an Enigma Machine, Turing could figure out how to crack any Nazi message, no matter what key it used.
    — from Little Brother by Cory Doctorow

More usage examples

Also see: Google, News, Images, Wikipedia, Reddit, BlueSky


Home   Reverse Dictionary / Thesaurus   Datamuse   Word games   Spruce   Feedback   Dark mode   Random word   Help


Color thesaurus

Use OneLook to find colors for words and words for colors

See an example

Literary notes

Use OneLook to learn how words are used by great writers

See an example

Word games

Try our innovative vocabulary games

Play Now

Read the latest OneLook newsletter issue: Threepeat Redux