Intended for or understood by only a small group, especially one with specialized knowledge or interests: an esoteric philosophical doctrine. See Synonyms at mysterious. b. Relating to or being a small group with specialized knowledge or interests: an esoteric circle.
Rubbing alcohol is neither an acid nor a base. Acids have pH values less than 7 and bases have pH values that are greater than 7. Rubbing alcohol has a pH value of 7, so it is neutral. Rubbing alcohol is also called isopropyl alcohol.
On the other hand, rubbing alcohol contains isopropyl alcohol (which is a chemically made alcohol), and usually contains additional water and sometimes glycerine, and isn't intended to be substituted for either grain or wood alcohol. To drink it would make one very ill and may even be lethal, or cause blindness.