# occult

/əˈkəɫt/ (US) · /əkˈʌlt/ (UK) · CEFR C2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/occult
Updated: 2026-05-07

## Definition

the study of magic, spirits, and hidden powers that science cannot explain. People often use this word when talking about secret rituals or mysterious beliefs.

For teachers: supernatural, mystical, or magical beliefs, practices, or phenomena. Often refers to systems of knowledge that are hidden from the uninitiated or outside the realm of empirical science.

## Examples

- She spent years studying the occult and ancient myths.
- The library contains a restricted section dedicated to the occult, featuring rare manuscripts on alchemy and divination.
- While modern chemistry has its roots in the occult practices of early alchemists, the two fields eventually diverged as the scientific method replaced mystical speculation.

## Usage notes

- Typically preceded by the definite article 'the' when referring to the subject as a whole.

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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.