esoteric UK /ˌiː.səʊˈtɛɹ.ɪk/US /ˌɛs.əˈtɛɹ.ɪk/adjective 3noun 2forms 3 adjective3 •Intended for or likely to be understood by only a small number of people with a specialized knowledge or interest, or an enlightened inner circle.The writing in this manual is very esoteric; I’d need a degree in engineering just to understand it! •Confidential; private. •Having to do with concepts that are highly theoretical and without obvious practical application; often with mystical or religious connotations.When he spoke to me of esoteric mysteries I wanted to say to him,"Don't give me that spiritual hokum, friend!" — 1976 noun2 •An esoteric doctrine or treatise; esoteric philosophy. •One who believes, or is an initiate, in esoteric doctrines or rites. formsesoterics · more esoteric · most esoteric