To save this word, you'll need to log in.
cryp·sis | \ ˈkrip-səs 
\
\Definition of crypsis
: 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
Keep scrolling for more
Comments on crypsis
What made you want to look up crypsis? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).
Test Your Vocabulary
Intact Latin Quiz
- What did focus mean in Latin?
Can you spell these 10 commonly misspelled words?
TAKE THE QUIZ
Test Your Knowledge - and learn some interesting things along the way.
TAKE THE QUIZLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridgedWords at Play
Ask the Editors
Word Games
- Intact Latin Quiz
What did each of these words mean to ancient Romans?
Take the quiz - The Eponym Quiz
Do you know these words that come from names?
Take the quiz - Spell It
Can you spell these 10 commonly misspelled words?
Take the quiz - Add Diction
Build a chain of words by adding one letter at a time.
Play the game
Share crypsis
Time Traveler for crypsis
The first known use of crypsis was in 1956
See more words from the same year