Esoteric

Adjective

Definition: Intended for or understood by only a small number of people with specialized knowledge or interests.

Synonyms: Arcane, Obscure, Cryptic

Antonyms: Accessible, Mainstream, Popular

Examples:
  • The professor's lectures were so esoteric that only a handful of students could understand them.
  • They discussed esoteric philosophical concepts during their late-night conversations.
Mnemonics:
  • Think of "secret" or "exclusive" knowledge that is limited to a select few.

Etymology:

Origin:

The word "esoteric" derives from the Greek word "esōterikos," meaning "inner" or "within."

Historical Usage:

The term has its roots in ancient Greek philosophy, where it referred to knowledge that was limited to a select group of initiates. It later gained popularity in the 17th-century when it was used in the context of mystical and occult teachings.

Related Idioms:

Idiom:

"Esoteric knowledge"

Explanation:

Refers to specialized or secret knowledge that is known only to a few individuals or a particular group.

Misconceptions:

Misconception:

Confusing "esoteric" with "exoteric."

Explanation:

While "esoteric" refers to knowledge that is intended for a small group of specialized people, "exoteric" refers to knowledge that is readily available and easily understandable by the general public. People often mistakenly use these terms interchangeably.

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