esoteric

The definition of esoteric is something only understood by a chosen group.

(adjective)

An example of esoteric is pa++ern, an embroidery language.

See esoteric in Webster's New World College Dictionary

adjective

1. intended for or understood by only a chosen few, as an inner group of disciples or initiates: said of ideas, literature, etc.
2. beyond the understanding or knowledge of most people; abstruse
confidential; private; withheld: an esoteric plan

Origin: Gr esōterikos < esōteros, inner, compar. of esō, within < es, eis, into

Related Forms:

See esoteric in American Heritage Dictionary 4

adjective

a. Intended for or understood by only a particular group: an esoteric cult. See Synonyms at mysterious.
b. Of or relating to that which is known by a restricted number of people.
a. Confined to a small group: esoteric interests.
b. Not publicly disclosed; confidential.

Origin:

Origin: Greek esōterikos

Origin: , from esōterō

Origin: , comparative of esō, within; see en in Indo-European roots

Related Forms: