Esoteric

/ˌɛsəˈtɛrɪk/

Meaning & Definition

adjective

Intended for or likely to be understood by only a small number of people with a specialized knowledge or interest.

The philosopher's theories were so esoteric that only a handful of scholars could grasp their full meaning.

Relating to or denoting knowledge that is restricted to a small group.

The ancient texts contained esoteric instructions that were meant to be deciphered only by initiates.

Difficult to understand; obscure.

The artist's esoteric style challenged traditional perceptions of beauty and art.

From Greek 'esoterikos', meaning 'inner' or 'belonging to an inner circle'.

esoteric knowledge

Knowledge that is known to a limited group of people.

esoteric wisdom

Insight or understanding that is not accessible to most people.

esoteric practices

Methods or procedures understood and used by a select group.

initiate

A person who is formally admitted to a group or organization.

mystical

Having a spiritual meaning that is not apparent to the senses.

Geeky or niche interest.

His passion for esoteric music makes it hard to find common ground with others.

Overly intellectual or pretentious.

That film was so esoteric, I felt like I needed a lecture to understand it.