occult, a term that was originally used in Latin to designate the hidden or unseen properties of things and that, since the 16th century, has also been used to characterize religious traditions that include belief in unseen forces or that otherwise behave in a secretive or mysterious manner. Moreover, in the phrase the occult, the term designates a range of religious traditions, typically of a culturally alternative or marginalized nature, that modern scholars more commonly categorize under the label esotericism. The word occult derives from the Latin adjective occultus, meaning “hidden” or “concealed.” In medieval Europe, thinkers influenced by Aristotelian ...(100 of 592 words) Access the full article Help support true facts by becoming a member. Subscribe today!