# recondite

/ˈɹɛkənˌdaɪt/ (US) · /ɹˌiːkəndˈaɪt/ (UK) · CEFR C2 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/recondite
Updated: 2026-04-24

## Definition

describing something that is difficult to understand because it is about a very specialized subject. You use this for topics that only a few experts know well.

For teachers: dealing with very specific or hidden knowledge that is beyond ordinary understanding; obscure or abstruse. Adjective, formal register.

## Examples

- The professor studies recondite subjects that few people understand.
- The researcher spent decades investigating recondite aspects of ancient history that most scholars had entirely ignored.
- The essay provides a fascinating glimpse into recondite areas of theoretical physics, though its dense terminology often proves impenetrable to those without a background in advanced mathematics.

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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.