Occult

Pronunciation

• UK IPA: /ˈɒk.ÊŒlt/, /əˈkÊŒlt/
• US IPA: /əˈkÊŒlt/
• Rhymes: -ÊŒlt

Origin

From Latin occultō ("hide, keep secret").

Full definition of occult

Verb

1. (transitive, astronomy) To cover or hide from view.The earth occults the moon during a lunar eclipse.
2. (transitive, rare) To dissimulate, conceal, or obfuscate.

Adjective

1. (medicine) Secret; hidden from general knowledge; undetected
   occult blood loss;   occult cancer
• I. TaylorIt is of an occult kind, and is so insensible in its advances as to escape observation.
2. Related to the occult; pertaining to mysticism, magic, or astrology.
• 1907, Robert Chambers, The Younger Set Chapter 8, “I never understood it,” she observed, lightly scornful. “What occult meaning has a sun-dial for a spooney ? I’m sure I don't want to read riddles into a strange gentleman’s optics.”
3. Esoteric.

Derived terms

• occult line

Noun

1. usually with the Supernatural affairs.

Related terms

• occultation