noun
A condition or quality in which something appears esoteric or arcane only on the surface level but reveals simplicity, clarity, or accessibility when examined more deeply. It describes a deceptive veneer of mystery that dissolves upon closer inspection.
Etymology:
From the Greek “esoterikos” (inner, esoteric) and Latin “ex” (out of, from) combined with “cortex” (outer shell, surface).
Example Sentence:
The manuscript gave an impression of great depth with its cryptic symbols, but after studying it for a while, it became clear that it was pure esortex, masking straightforward ideas behind ornamental complexity.