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Definition of cryptically

cryptically

/ˈkrɪp.tɪ.kli/
cryp · ti · cal · ly
Adjective:cryptic
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cryptically Lexical Profile

cryptically Game Scores & Validity

• adverb

1

In a mysterious, obscure, or enigmatic manner that is difficult to understand or interpret.

Example

"When asked about the upcoming merger, the director smiled and replied cryptically that big changes were on the horizon."

2

By means of coloration or markings that allow an organism to blend in with its surroundings and remain concealed (in zoology).

Example

"The ground-nesting bird is cryptically colored to match the dry leaves and twigs of the forest floor."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• Rhymes for cryptically

• Nearby Words

crypt
cryptanthus
cryptic
cryptically
cryptid
crypto
cryptocurrency

Word Origin & Etymology

Formed in English from the adjective 'cryptic' and the adverbial suffix '-ally', ultimately tracing back to the Ancient Greek 'kryptikos' (fit for concealing), from 'kryptein' (to hide).

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Cryptically. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/cryptically
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