OBFUSCATE Synonyms: 43 Similar and Opposite Words

obfuscate

verb

ˈäb-fə-ˌskāt

Definition of obfuscate

as in to confuse

to make (something) unclear to the understanding irrelevant matters that only serve to obfuscate the fundamental issue of guilt or innocence

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Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of obfuscate Throughout the history of the game, as concerned parties sought evidence, some of football’s most powerful protectors obfuscated the problem. — Emily Harrison, STAT, 31 Aug. 2026 Yet our tendency to use body mass as a convenient proxy for unhealthy weight gain may obfuscate the true risks – and even benefits – of being a little bigger. — Mike McRae 24, New Atlas, 24 Aug. 2026 For around five years, Rodriguez and Perez allegedly obfuscated the various thefts as miscellaneous business expenses. — Sofia Saric, Miami Herald, 19 Aug. 2026 The lawsuit expanded on that, accusing the village of obfuscating the nature of the development during the earlier stages of approvals. — Joseph States, Chicago Tribune, 7 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for obfuscate

Recent Examples of Synonyms for obfuscate

confuse

Verb

But the other Sullivan has said the decision to run was his own and denied his candidacy was intended to confuse voters or siphon votes in Republican Sullivan's tight race against Democrat Mary Peltola, a former congresswoman.

— Willem Marx, NPR, 25 Oct. 2026
Christina Applegate’s recent revelation that she was misdiagnosed with multiple sclerosis is raising questions about how the disease can be confused with other conditions even after years of treatment.

— Melissa Rudy, FOXNews.com, 24 Oct. 2026

Definition of confuse

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obeys

obfuscate

obfuscated

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“Obfuscate.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/obfuscate. Accessed 27 Oct. 2026.

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Synonyms of obfuscate

verb

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