obscurantist

1 of 2

noun

ob·​scu·​ran·​tist əbzˈkyu̇rəntə̇st 

äb-, 

-bˈsk-;

ˌäbzkyəˈran-, 

-bsk-

plural -s

: a practitioner of or believer in obscurantism

obscurantist

2 of 2

adjective

1

: of, relating to, or constituting obscurantism

obscurantist doctrines

: affected by obscurantism

an American society made sterile and obscurantist by big business

—H. N. Smith

2

: being or characteristic of an obscurantist

a notably obscurantist leader

Word History

Etymology

Noun

obscurant entry 1 + -ist

The Ultimate Dictionary Awaits

Expand your vocabulary and dive deeper into language with Merriam-Webster Unabridged.

1. Expanded definitions
2. Detailed etymologies
3. Advanced search tools
4. All ad-free

Discover what makes Merriam-Webster Unabridged the essential choice for true word lovers.

Start Your Free Trial Now