Definition

A practice or policy of keeping information hidden from the public, often to prevent understanding or knowledge.

Example

The government's obscurantism made it difficult for citizens to access important information.

Conversation

Have you heard about the recent debate on obscurantism in education?

Yeah, it's pretty controversial, isn’t it?

I think it's frustrating when schools use obscurantism to hide important information from students.

Definitely! We should be encouraging more transparency, not less.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Obscurantism → It is formed from "obscurus" (meaning dark or obscure) and "-ism" (a suffix used to denote a practice or philosophy). The term refers to a practice or philosophy that deliberately obscures or prevents the dissemination of knowledge.

Memory Tip

Think of 'darkness' ('obscurus') representing a lack of clarity or knowledge, and the '-ism' indicating a practice. This helps you remember that obscurantism is about practices that keep knowledge hidden.

Visually Confused Words