Dictionary

abstruse

adjective ab·struse \əb-ˈstrüs, ab-\

: hard to understand

Full Definition of ABSTRUSE

:  difficult to comprehend :  recondite <the abstruse calculations of mathematicians>
ab·struse·ly adverb
ab·struse·ness noun
ADVERTISEMENT

Origin of ABSTRUSE

Latin abstrusus, from past participle of abstrudere to conceal, from abs-, ab- + trudere to push — more at threat
First Known Use: 1599

Browse

Next Word in the Dictionary: abstrusityPrevious Word in the Dictionary: abstrictionAll Words Near: abstruse
ADVERTISEMENT
How to use a word that (literally) drives some people nuts.
Test your vocab with our fun, fast game
Ailurophobia, and 9 other unusual fears