rhizoverbBeta
DictionaryobfuscateMake unclear
verb

obfuscate

AHB-fuh-skayt/ˈɑːbfəskeɪt/

To make something unclear or hard to understand.

Adding competing routes obfuscates the diagram and confuses its viewer.

A compact two-stage comparison shows a readily understood route diagram becoming confusing as a woman adds competing routes on an overlay; the same viewer changes from confidently following the route to hesitating among contradictory branches.
Etymology
obLatinin front of; before
+fuscateLatinto make dark

The prefix combines with “make dark” to form a verb already used chiefly figuratively in Latin. That image treats understanding like clear sight: making something dark makes its meaning difficult to grasp.

In context

SN Radio43:38
people seek to to um um um obfuscate the argument just to hide what is the elephant in the room.
BREAKING: The Constitutional Brouhaha Presently In Salone - CSO Abdul Fatoma vs APC Ady Macauley

More examples

  • His vague answer obfuscates the real reason for the delay.
  • The confusing fee schedule obfuscated the total cost.
  • Extra details risk obfuscating your main point.

Forms

obfuscate · obfuscates · obfuscated · obfuscating

obfuscation noun — The act of making meaning unclear.

Similar words

obscure
Can hide something from view as well as make meaning unclear.
confuse
Emphasizes leaving someone uncertain rather than making information unclear.
cloud
Often describes emotions or doubts making judgment less clear.