delphic
Cryptically prophetic, ambiguous
Delphic describes something ambiguous, obscure, or open to multiple interpretations—like the pronouncements of the ancient oracle.
A delphic answer leaves you uncertain what was really meant: Her delphic reply could have been yes or no.
The word suggests deliberate vagueness, prophecy-like utterances that seem profound but resist pinning down. (Capitalized Delphic relates specifically to ancient Delphi.)
Puzzling and obscure
- crypticObscure in meaning
- ambiguousHaving multiple interpretations
- inscrutableImpossible to understand
- vagueUnclear, ill-defined
unclear · equivocal · opaque · nebulous · murky · puzzling · perplexing · elliptical
Accessible to few
- occultConcealed from view
- supernaturalBeyond natural explanation
- transcendentalBeyond ordinary experience
- etherealDelicate beyond earthly measure
hermetic · cabalistic · theosophical · ineffable · metaphysical · arcane · abstruse · gnostic
enigmatic
Puzzling and obscure
- crypticObscure in meaning
- ambiguousHaving multiple interpretations
- inscrutableImpossible to understand
vague · unclear · equivocal · opaque · nebulous · murky · puzzling · perplexing · elliptical · riddling
esoteric
Accessible to few
- occultConcealed from view
- supernaturalBeyond natural explanation
- transcendentalBeyond ordinary experience
ethereal · hermetic · cabalistic · theosophical · ineffable · metaphysical · arcane · abstruse · gnostic · numinous
- puzzlespuzzles, sudoku, jigsaw puzzle, puzzle cube, crossword
delphicclear
Without obstruction or fog
plain · explicit · straightforward · unambiguous · plain-spoken
delphicprosaic
Lacking imagination or excitement
mundane · uninspired · pedestrian · literal-minded · unvisionary
- oracle of DelphiAncient Greek prophetic priestess
- Delphic oracleAncient prophetic voice