Finesentence mobile logo
Sign in Login / Register

Occult Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

🔮
Add to dictionary

occult

[əˈkʌlt ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

study of hidden knowledge

The occult refers to the study of hidden knowledge and practices that are beyond the realm of ordinary human understanding. It often involves spiritual and mystical beliefs, as well as the exploration of supernatural phenomena.

Synonyms

esoteric, mystical, supernatural.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
occult

Refers to practices and phenomena related to magic, witchcraft, and secret knowledge. Often carries a sense of mystery, secrecy, and sometimes a negative connotation.

  • She has an interest in occult practices like tarot reading and spell casting.
  • The book delves into the occult and explores ancient rituals.
esoteric

Describes knowledge or information that is intended for or understood by only a small group of people, especially those with specialized knowledge or interests.

  • The lecture was filled with esoteric theories that only experts in the field could understand.
  • He shared esoteric knowledge about ancient languages with the small group of students.
mystical

Pertains to spiritual experiences or practices that go beyond ordinary human understanding. Often associated with a sense of awe and wonder.

  • The mystical experience of meditating in the mountains left her feeling deeply connected to the universe.
  • He had a mystical vision that he believed was a message from a higher power.
supernatural

Relates to phenomena or entities that are beyond the laws of nature. Often used in the context of ghosts, spirits, or otherworldly experiences.

  • The haunted house was said to be filled with supernatural activity.
  • She claimed to have seen a supernatural being in the middle of the night.

Examples of usage

  • The occult has been a subject of fascination for centuries.
  • Many ancient civilizations had their own beliefs and practices related to the occult.
Context #2 | Adjective

hidden or secret

Something that is occult is hidden or secret, not easily understood or known by others. It can also refer to mystical or supernatural qualities.

Synonyms

hidden, mysterious, secret.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
occult

Use 'occult' to refer to knowledge or practices involving magic, spirits, or the supernatural, often with a sense of secrecy or esoteric wisdom. This word can have negative connotations.

  • She had a deep interest in occult practices like tarot reading
  • The book explored various occult rituals and their history
hidden

Use 'hidden' to describe something that is not visible or easily found, often because it is purposefully covered or out of sight.

  • The treasure was hidden under the old oak tree
  • She found a hidden door behind the bookshelf
secret

Use 'secret' to describe something that is kept from others intentionally, often because it is private or confidential.

  • He shared a secret with his best friend
  • The recipe for the sauce is a closely guarded secret
mysterious

Use 'mysterious' to describe something that is difficult to understand or explain, often because it seems strange or unknown.

  • The illness appeared suddenly and was mysterious to all the doctors
  • There was a mysterious light in the sky

Examples of usage

  • She had an occult knowledge of ancient rituals.
  • The book contained occult symbols and cryptic messages.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Origin of 'occult'

The word 'occult' comes from the Latin word 'occultus', meaning 'hidden' or 'secret'. It has been used in various contexts throughout history, often associated with mystical or supernatural beliefs. The study of the occult has been a topic of interest for philosophers, mystics, and scholars for centuries.

See also: cult, cultivate, culture, cultured, enculturation.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #14,080, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.