adjective
arcane
ar-KAYN/ɑːrˈkeɪn/
Known or understood by only a few people.
The scholar studies an arcane instrument used to chart the stars.
Etymology
Latin arcanus meant “hidden” or “secret,” with an underlying image of enclosing something for safekeeping. Applied to knowledge, that secrecy becomes understanding confined to a small circle.
In context
through contemplation or by surrendering to some esoteric unknown that one can find spiritual apprehension and understanding of arcane forces that perhaps drive the universe
More examples
- Only a few scholars understand the arcane ritual.
- He spends years mastering the game's arcane rules.
- The old legal procedure seems arcane to modern readers.
Forms
arcane
Similar words
- esoteric
- Also describes knowledge shared by a small, specialized group.
- obscure
- Obscure is little known or hard to understand; arcane suggests specialized or mysterious knowledge.