arcanum

[ ahr-key-nuhm ]

noun

, plural ar·ca·na [ahr-, key, -n, uh].

1. Often arcana. secret or arcane knowledge, acquired or understood by only a few:

   If you enjoy the arcana of early baseball, this book is for you.

2. a supposed great secret of nature that the alchemists sought to discover.
3. a secret and powerful remedy; elixir.

arcanum

/ ɑːˈkeɪnəm /

noun

1. sometimes plural a profound secret or mystery known only to initiates
2. a secret of nature sought by alchemists

Word History and Origins

Origin of arcanum¹

First recorded in 1590–1600; from Latin, neuter (used as noun) of arcānus arcane ( def )

Word History and Origins

Origin of arcanum¹

C16: from Latin; see arcane

Example Sentences

But this is a totally different idea from that of the seekers of the grand arcanum.

From Project Gutenberg

Arcanum relative to conception, which takes place though the souls of two married partners be disjoined, 245.

From Project Gutenberg

Arcanum respecting the actual habitation of every man in some society, either of heaven or hell, 530.

From Project Gutenberg

Totam igitur veritatem et omne divinæ religionis arcanum philosophi attigerunt.

From Project Gutenberg

For instance, the Royal Arcanum met to discuss what could be done about the increased rates.

From Project Gutenberg