Definition

To make something unclear or difficult to understand, often by confusing it or hiding the truth.

Example

The lawyer tried to obfuscate the facts during the trial.

Tense Forms

Conversation

I found the instructions for the project really confusing.

Yeah, they tend to obfuscate the key points sometimes.

I wish they would just make things clearer instead of complicating them.

Totally! It's frustrating when they obfuscate simple tasks.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Obfuscate → It is formed from "ob-" (meaning against or over) and "fuscus" (meaning dark or obscure). The word describes the act of making something unclear or darkening it, thus obscuring understanding.

Memory Tip

Think of something being made 'dark' or 'obscure' ('fuscus') when it is 'over' or 'against' clarity ('ob-'). This helps you remember that to obfuscate means to make something unclear.

Visually Confused Words