mystique
UK: mɪˈstiːk | US: mɪˈstiːk
n. 1. A quality of mystery, glamour, or power that surrounds someone or something and excites interest or admiration.
n. 2. An air of secrecy or obscurity that enhances appeal.
Derived from French "mystique," which traces back to Latin "mysticus" (meaning "mystical" or "secret"), itself borrowed from Greek "mystikos" (related to religious mysteries). The suffix "-ique" is a French adjectival ending, later nominalized in English to denote an abstract quality. The word evolved from religious secrecy to a broader sense of enigmatic allure in modern usage.
The actor’s mystique made him irresistible to fans.
Ancient temples often carry a sense of mystique.
She cultivated an air of mystique by rarely giving interviews.
The old book had a certain mystique about it.
The artist’s work retains its mystique even after decades.