How Do You Spell CRYPTIC?

Pronunciation: [kɹˈɪptɪk] (IPA)

The word "cryptic" has a spelling that can be a bit confusing. The IPA phonetic transcription for this word is /ˈkrɪptɪk/. The "c" is pronounced like a "k" sound, and the combination of "yp" makes the short "i" sound. The "t" sound is followed by the "ɪk" sound, which can be pronounced as "ick." This word can also be challenging because it's often associated with hidden or mysterious meanings. But once you get the hang of spelling it, you'll be able to easily use it in your writing.

CRYPTIC Meaning and Definition

  1. The term "cryptic" refers to something that is mysterious, obscure, or having a hidden meaning that is not easily understood or interpreted. Derived from the Greek word "kryptos," meaning hidden or secret, cryptic describes a communication or expression that is intentionally puzzling or enigmatic. It commonly describes cryptic messages, codes, or puzzles that require careful analysis or decryption to decipher their true meaning.

    In the context of language, a cryptic statement may use ambiguous or seemingly contradictory words or phrases, potentially misleading the reader or listener. It is often employed in poetry, riddles, or literary devices to provoke deep thought, encourage multiple interpretations, or create an air of intrigue.

    Cryptic can also refer to an individual's behavior or demeanor, often described as secretive, enigmatic, or inscrutable. Such a person may prefer to keep their thoughts or feelings concealed or only reveal partial clues without fully disclosing their intentions or motives.

    Additionally, in the field of biology, cryptic can describe a trait or characteristic that is hidden or not easily observable, either due to camouflage or the complexity of the organism's structure.

    Overall, the term cryptic evokes a sense of mystery, requiring a level of investigation, analysis, or exploration to uncover its hidden meanings, messages, or intentions.

  2. Hidden, occult, larvate.

    A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.

  3. Pert. to; hidden; secret.

    Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Top Common Misspellings for CRYPTIC *

* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.

Other Common Misspellings for CRYPTIC

Etymology of CRYPTIC

The word "cryptic" originated from the Greek word "kryptos", meaning "hidden" or "secret". It is derived from the verb "krypto", which means "to hide". The term was reshaped in Latin as "crypticus" and eventually entered into English as "cryptic" in the early 17th century.

Similar spelling words for CRYPTIC

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