cryptic

adj. a type of puzzle where the clues use wordplay and hidden meanings instead of simple definitions.

adj. relating to a crossword puzzle in which each clue contains a cryptic description or wordplay alongside a definition.

“I spent all morning trying to solve just one clue in the cryptic crossword.”

“Experienced solvers often prefer cryptic puzzles because they require lateral thinking rather than simple synonym recall.”

British English

adj. having colors or patterns that help an animal hide in its environment.

adj. serving to conceal or camouflage an organism within its natural environment.

“The moth's cryptic coloring makes it look exactly like the tree bark.”

“Many ground-nesting birds rely on cryptic plumage to avoid detection by aerial predators during the breeding season.”

Technical

adj. describing two groups of animals that look the same but are actually different species.

adj. referring to species that are morphologically identical but genetically distinct and unable to interbreed.

“Scientists discovered that the frogs were actually two different cryptic species.”

“DNA sequencing has revealed numerous cryptic species that were previously classified as a single taxon based on physical appearance.”

Technical

n. a short way to say 'cryptic crossword'.

n. an informal clipping for a cryptic crossword puzzle.

“Do you have the Saturday paper? I want to try the cryptic.”

“He makes a habit of completing the daily cryptic before starting his actual work.”

Informal · British English