obscure

//əbˈskjʊr//

Adjectives
C1

Translation

obscure

Definition

Obscure describes something that is not well known, hidden from general view, or difficult to understand due to its lack of prominence or visibility. This meaning emphasizes a state of being remote, unfamiliar, or intentionally kept out of the spotlight, often referring to places, facts, or works that are overlooked or little known. In usage, it can apply to a person of humble origins, a rare book, or a subtle detail that escapes notice.

Example

  • The author remained obscure for decades until a literary critic rediscovered her work.

  • They hiked to an obscure mountain village that wasn't marked on any map.

  • His research focused on an obscure species of beetle found only in a single cave system.

  • The meaning of the ancient symbol remains obscure to modern scholars.

  • She quoted an obscure passage from a medieval manuscript that few had ever read.

  • The restaurant is so obscure that even locals rarely find it.

  • He made a living by collecting and selling obscure vinyl records from the 1960s.

  • The festival celebrates obscure folk traditions that have nearly died out.

  • Her role in the project was obscure, often overshadowed by her more famous colleagues.

  • The trail led to an obscure clearing where an old cabin stood abandoned.

Synonyms

unknown
little-known
unfamiliar
hidden
remote

Other meanings

  • B2
    anlaşılması güç, belirsizView this sense
  • C1
    az bilinen, gözden uzak(this page)

Related words

nasty

nasty

Adjectives

When describing a disease, wound, or medical condition, 'nasty' means severe, dangerous, or likely to cause serious harm, often implying a prolonged or complicated recovery. This informal but widely u…

original

original

Nouns

An original is the first version of something, such as a work of art, document, or creation, from which copies or imitations are made. In contexts like art, literature, or design, the term emphasizes…

pregnant

pregnant

Adjectives

The word 'pregnant' in this context describes a pause, silence, or moment that is filled with significant meaning, tension, or unspoken emotion, often creating anticipation or depth in communication.…

prime

prime minister

Nouns

The word 'prime' can refer to a head of government in parliamentary systems, often used as a shortened form of 'prime minister'. In this context, it denotes the chief executive or leader of a cabinet,…

pure

pure

Adjectives

In an abstract or theoretical sense, 'pure' describes something that is free from any external influence, contamination, or mixture, often referring to ideas, concepts, or disciplines that are conside…

smooth

smooth

Adjectives

When describing a transition, process, or experience, 'smooth' means occurring without difficulty, interruption, or sudden changes; it implies ease, fluidity, and a lack of obstacles. This use often a…

stiff

stiff

Adjectives

When describing behavior or manner, 'stiff' refers to a formal, rigid, and often unfriendly or insincere way of interacting, lacking warmth or natural ease.

tough

tough

Adjectives

When describing a person, 'tough' refers to someone who is stern, uncompromising, and often harsh in their treatment of others, showing little sympathy or leniency. This usage is common in contexts in…

upset

upset

Nouns

In sports, politics, or other competitive contexts, an upset is an unexpected defeat of a highly favored opponent or a surprising result that defies predictions. This noun form emphasizes the shock an…

wicked

wicked

Adjectives

When used informally, 'wicked' describes something extremely impressive, cool, or excellent, often conveying enthusiastic approval. This slang usage originated in New England and has spread widely, pa…