cryptic
UK[ˈkrɪptɪk]US[ˈkrɪptɪk]
adj
having a meaning that is mysterious or obscure
adj
(of a crossword puzzle or clue) designed to be difficult and only solvable by ingenious methods
Morpheme Breakdown
crypt
ic
crypt
hidden
ic
adjective suffix
Etymology
the word 'cryptic' originates from the greek 'kryptos', meaning "hidden." this root passed into latin as 'crypticus', and entered english in the 17th century via late latin. the core semantic logic has remained remarkably consistent: from the literal sense of something physically concealed, it evolved to describe language or symbols whose meaning is intentionally obscured or puzzling. the '-ic' suffix functions to form the adjective, solidifying its role in describing a quality of being hidden or mysterious.
Analysis
Structure: crypt (hidden) + ic (adjective suffix)
- crypt: from latin 'crypta', meaning "vault, hidden place," from greek 'kryptē', a derivative of 'kryptos' meaning "hidden."
- ic: a suffix forming adjectives, from latin '-icus', from greek '-ikos', meaning "of, pertaining to."
Examples
he left a cryptic message that no one could decipher.
the stone was carved with cryptic symbols.
the crossword setter is known for her particularly cryptic clues.