PoliticsAugust 27, 2026

opaqueness

oh-PAYK-nes

Definition

The state or quality of being difficult to understand, interpret, or see through; lack of clarity or transparency.

Etymology

Derived from the Latin 'opacus,' meaning 'shaded' or 'dark.' It entered English to describe physical materials that light cannot pass through, later expanding metaphorically to describe situations that lack clarity or transparency.

In the news

The article uses the word to describe the confusing, non-transparent nature of the federal personnel removal process, which results from having many overlapping agency and bureau regulations.

Federal management is at a crossroads. Can good government leaders seize the opportunity?

Read the full article ↗

Federal News Network

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