occultatio

Occultatio is a Latin term that translates to "hiding" or "concealment." In a general sense, it refers to the act or state of being hidden from view. This concept can be applied in various contexts, including astronomy, where it describes the obscuring of one celestial body by another. For instance, an occultation occurs when a nearer celestial object passes directly in front of a more distant one, blocking its light. A common example is the Moon occulting a star or a planet.

The term can also be used in a more philosophical or psychological sense, referring to the hiding of emotions, intentions, or true selves. This involves a deliberate or unconscious act of concealing inner states from external perception. In literature and drama, occultatio can be a plot device used to create suspense or reveal character development as the hidden aspects are eventually unveiled. The etymology of the word stems from the Latin verb "occultare," meaning to hide away or keep secret, which itself is derived from "celare," to conceal. Understanding occultatio involves recognizing its multifaceted applications, from the observable phenomena in the cosmos to the subtle workings of the human mind.