mystic
UK[ˈmɪstɪk]US[ˈmɪstɪk]
adj
relating to mysticism or religious mysteries; having a spiritual significance that transcends human understanding.
n
a person who seeks by contemplation and self-surrender to obtain unity with or absorption into the deity or the absolute, or who believes in the spiritual apprehension of truths beyond the intellect.
Morpheme Breakdown
myst
ic
myst
secret, hidden
ic
adjective-forming suffix
Etymology
the word 'mystic' traces its lineage to the ancient greek religious context, specifically the 'mystēria' or secret rites. the core root 'myst-' conveys the concept of secrecy and initiation, referring to one who has closed their eyes or lips to the outer world to perceive inner, divine truths. this greek term passed into late latin as 'mysticus', carrying the sense of 'hidden, symbolic, or spiritually allegorical'. in english, the suffix '-ic' was appended, solidifying its role as an adjective describing that which pertains to direct, esoteric spiritual experience, and later as a noun for the practitioner of such pursuits.
Analysis
Structure: myst (secret, hidden) + ic (adjective-forming suffix)
'myst' originates from greek 'mystēs', meaning 'one initiated into mysteries', from 'myein' (to close the eyes or lips). 'ic' is a suffix of greek origin via latin '-icus', used to form adjectives meaning 'of, pertaining to, or characteristic of'.
Examples
the ancient text contained mystic symbols understood only by the high priests.
she was known as a mystic who spent hours in deep meditation.
the ceremony had a mystic quality that filled the participants with awe.