Intrigue

/ɪnˈtrig/

Meaning & Definition

noun

A secret plan or scheme; a complicated or underhanded plot.

The novel is full of political intrigue and deception.

The quality of being interesting or fascinating.

The architect's design created an aura of intrigue around the building.

verb

To arouse the curiosity or interest of; to fascinate.

The mysterious painting intrigued the visitors at the gallery.

To make secret plans to do something illicit or detrimental to someone.

They intrigued against the government to seize power.

Late Middle English: from Old French 'intriguer', from Latin 'intricare' which means 'entangle'.

political intrigue

Plots and scheming in political contexts.

intrigue someone

To capture someone's interest or curiosity.

court intrigue

Secretive plots and plans among court members.

intriguer

A person who intrigues or schemes.

intriguing

Something that arouses curiosity or interest.

A situation or event that is full of unexpected twists.

That relationship was pure intrigue—no one saw that breakup coming!

To make a complex situation more interesting.

The party was a bit dull, but when she arrived, it definitely added some intrigue!