Definition

A person who deliberately prevents others from understanding or knowing something, often by being vague or misleading.

Example

The obscurantist avoided giving clear answers to the questions posed by the audience.

Conversation

I read an article about an obscurantist who tries to make complex ideas seem more confusing.

That sounds frustrating! Why would someone do that?

I think they believe it makes them sound smarter or more important.

It's so silly; clarity is way more valuable than trying to confuse people.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Obscurantist → It is formed from "obscurus" (meaning dark or obscure) and the suffix "-ist" (meaning one who practices or is concerned with). The term refers to someone who deliberately prevents the facts or full understanding of a subject, thus keeping it dark or obscure.

Memory Tip

Think of someone who keeps things 'dark' or 'obscure' ('obscurus') and is a person who practices this ('-ist'). This helps you remember that an obscurantist is someone who obscures knowledge.

Visually Confused Words