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intrigue

verb

/ɪnˈtriːɡ/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of intrigue

To arouse curiosity, fascination, or interest in a secretive or captivating manner.
"The dark side of the moon continues to intrigue astronomers."

Detailed meaning of intrigue

When someone or something intrigues, it elicits a sense of mystery or attraction that compels individuals to want to learn more or delve deeper into the subject. This verb can encompass a range of emotions, from simple curiosity to a strong desire to understand the hidden or complex aspects of a situation, person, or event. To intrigue is to create a sense of anticipation and engagement by presenting information or actions that spark questions, speculation, or a desire to uncover the unknown. It often involves an element of enigma or an aura of the unknown that stirs people's imagination and draws them into the narrative or scenario.

Example sentences containing intrigue

1. Mysteries of the deep sea intrigue many, drawing them to uncharted waters.
2. The old, hidden library books intrigue readers, promising untold tales.
3. Alien civilizations intrigue scientists, offering answers and more questions.
4. Hidden treasures in ancient lands intrigue explorers, luring them into the unknown.
5. Distant galaxies intrigue astronomers, hinting at cosmic wonders unseen.
6. Secret societies intrigue many, with their rituals cloaked in mystery.

History and etymology of intrigue

The verb 'intrigue' has a captivating etymology that traces its roots to Latin and ultimately to the intricate world of politics and espionage. It is derived from the Latin word 'intricare,' which means 'to entangle' or 'to involve.' In ancient Rome, 'intricare' was often used to describe the complex and convoluted nature of political or diplomatic affairs. Over time, the term evolved to encompass the idea of arousing curiosity, fascination, or interest, often in a secretive or captivating manner. When we say something 'intrigues' us, we are acknowledging its power to entangle our thoughts and emotions, much like the intricacies of political plots. Thus, the etymology of 'intrigue' highlights its historical connection to the world of intrigue, politics, and secret dealings, which later expanded to describe the compelling and captivating nature of various situations, ideas, or individuals.

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Further usage examples of intrigue

1. Lost cities beneath the earth intrigue archaeologists, promising discovery.
2. Whispers of a forgotten world intrigue adventurers, calling them into the mist.
3. Enigmatic artifacts in the desert intrigue researchers, holding ancient secrets.
4. Ancient runes intrigue linguists, offering a gateway to past civilizations.
5. Mysterious sounds in the forest intrigue listeners, echoing with untold stories.
6. The mystery novel never failed to intrigue her, even after multiple readings.
7. Your unique perspective on this matter really intrigues me.
8. Ancient Egyptian culture has always intrigued historians and archaeologists alike.
9. The concept of time travel intrigues children and adults in equal measures.
10. The way different cultures coexist in the city intrigues visitors from around the world.
11. The intricate design of the old clockwork toy continues to intrigue collectors.
12. Your new project intrigues me; could you share more details about it?
13. The patterns of bird migration intrigue scientists who study animal behavior.
14. The possibility of life on other planets intrigues the human imagination.
15. The elusive nature of quantum physics continues to intrigue scholars worldwide.
16. That rare piece of art intrigues connoisseurs with its unusual style.
17. Your approach to problem-solving intrigues me; it's unconventional yet effective.
18. The unique linguistic structure of the Basque language intrigues linguists.
19. The concept of zero in ancient mathematics intrigues scholars.
20. The enigmatic smile of the Mona Lisa still intrigues millions of visitors each year.
21. Her unpredictable personality intrigues those who meet her for the first time.
22. The way he plays chess, always thinking several moves ahead, intrigues me.
23. The unseen world of microbes continues to intrigue and surprise scientists.
24. The complexity and diversity of human genetics never cease to intrigue researchers.