The word "occulted" is spelled with three syllables: /əˈkʌl.tɪd/. The first syllable is pronounced with the schwa sound /ə/, followed by the stressed second syllable with the "uh" sound /ʌ/, and ending with the "-ted" sound /tɪd/. The word means to conceal or hide, often referring to celestial bodies such as the sun or moon being obscured. The spelling of the word emphasizes the pronunciation of the "cul" sound, contrasting with the similar-sounding word "occurred".
Occulted is an adjective that stems from the verb "to occult," meaning to conceal, hide, or obscure something from view or understanding. This term is commonly used in various contexts, including science, astronomy, and literature.
In scientific terms, "occulted" refers to the event when a celestial body, usually a planet or a moon, is obscured by another object passing in front of it, resulting in a temporary absence from view. During an occultation, the obscured body seems to disappear or become hidden due to its alignment with the intervening object. Astronomers study and record such occurrences to gain insight into the positions, sizes, and atmospheres of celestial bodies.
In more general terms, "occulted" can describe a state of being hidden or kept secret. In literature or storytelling, it can be used to describe secretive or mysterious practices, beliefs, or knowledge associated with the occult. The occult often encompasses supernatural, mystical, or esoteric elements outside the realm of traditional understanding or religion.
Furthermore, "occulted" can also be used metaphorically to imply an overshadowing or suppression of certain ideas, information, or individuals for political, social, or personal reasons. This conveys the idea that something important or significant is intentionally concealed or obscured from public knowledge or awareness.
Overall, "occulted" encompasses the notions of concealment, secrecy, and absence from view, whether in a scientific, supernatural, or metaphorical context.
Hidden, as a star.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "occulted" originates from the Latin term "occultare", which means "to hide" or "to conceal". It is derived from the Latin adjective "occultus", which translates to "hidden" or "secret". In English, "occulted" refers to the act of becoming hidden, concealed, or obscured from view. It is often used in astronomy when a celestial object is obscured by another.