crypsis

noun

cryp·​sis ˈkrip-səs 

: the ability of an organism to conceal itself especially from a predator by having a color, pattern, and shape that allows it to blend into the surrounding environment

Horned lizards have a delightful variety of defenses. Their primary defense is crypsis; their pattern of coloration varies geographically to match the substrate, and their spines obscure their body outlines, making them difficult to see.

—Jeff Mitton

… legions of tiny fish and shrimps have evolved to live with impunity among these coral tentacles, escaping predators' notice by resembling their hosts, a feat called crypsis.

—Les Kaufman

Examples of crypsis in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

When their perches were disturbed by the researchers, the females pressed their bodies firmly against the leaves to avoid detection in a defensive behavior called crypsis, according to the study. —Lauren Liebhaber, Miami Herald, 24 Apr. 2025

Generally, researchers said crypsis is found in prey species and ambush predators. —Lee Roop | [e-mail], al, 20 Dec. 2022

This phenomenon, known as crypsis, is also responsible for the bold black-and-white coloration of giant pandas, reports the Times. —Sarah Kuta, Smithsonian Magazine, 19 Dec. 2022

Dark markings on the head are not used in crypsis, however, but in communication: Dark ears may be involved with signaling intent about ferocity whereas dark eye marks may serve in individual recognition. —Seriously Science, Discover Magazine, 6 Mar. 2017

Word History

Etymology

cryp(tic) + -sis, or borrowed from Greek krýpsis "hiding, concealment," from kryp- (stem of krýptein "to hide, conceal") + -sis -sis — more at crypt

First Known Use

1956, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for crypsis

• ellipsis