# arcane

/ˌɑɹˈkeɪn/ (US) · /ɑːkˈeɪn/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/arcane
Updated: 2026-05-18

## Definition

difficult to understand or know because it is very old, secret, or complex. You use this to describe things that feel like a mystery to most people.

For teachers: difficult to understand or know; relating to something secret, mysterious, or highly specialized. Often used to describe obscure knowledge or ancient traditions.

## Examples

- The old library contains many arcane texts.
- The software's arcane coding made it nearly impossible for the new team to update the system.
- The scholar spent years deciphering the arcane symbols found on the temple walls, hoping to unlock the secrets of the lost civilization.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.