Meaning & Definition of Esoteric in English

Detailed Definitions

• Definition: Designed for or understood by the specially initiated alone.

  Example Sentence: The seminar covered esoteric concepts that are not widely known.

• Definition: Relating to a select group that has a particular interest or understanding.

  Example Sentence: The esoteric nature of the text made it difficult for an average reader to grasp.

• Definition: Of or relating to the inner or secret doctrines of a particular school of thought.

  Example Sentence: Many of the esoteric teachings of the ancient philosophers remain obscure.

Etymology

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

Synonyms

Common Phrases and Expressions

• 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.

Translations

• Spanish: esotérico

• French: ésotérique

• German: esoterisch

• Russian: эзотерический

Related Words

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

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

Slang Meanings of esoteric

• Meaning: Geeky or niche interest.

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

• Meaning: Overly intellectual or pretentious.

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