cryptic
adjective
Having a meaning that is mysterious or obscure; secret or coded; in biology, serving to camouflage.
Etymology
From Late Latin crypticus, from Greek kryptikos "fit for concealing," from kryptos "hidden," from kryptein "to hide."
Examples in Use
- 1.
"His cryptic message left us puzzled."
- 2.
"The ancient text contained cryptic symbols."
- 3.
"The moth's cryptic coloring helped it hide on tree bark."
Related Vocabulary
Synonyms
Related Words
Fun Fact
Cryptography, crypt, and cryptic all come from Greek kryptos (hidden). A crypt is a hidden underground chamber; cryptography is hidden writing; cryptic coloration helps animals hide in plain sight.
Word Game Tips
Letters: 7 letters (C, R, Y, P, T, I, C)
Scrabble Value: 16 points
Tip: Try building from common prefixes or suffixes when you spot these letters.
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