aposematic

[ ap-uh-suh-mat-ik ]

adjective

, Zoology.

1. colored or constructed in a way that indicates special capabilities for defense.

aposematic

/ ˌæpəsɪˈmætɪk /

adjective

1. (of the coloration of certain distasteful or poisonous animals) characterized by bright conspicuous markings, which predators recognize and learn to avoid; warning

Other Words From

• apo·se·mati·cal·ly adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of aposematic¹

First recorded in 1885–90; apo- + sematic

Word History and Origins

Origin of aposematic¹

C19: from apo- + Greek sēma sign

Example Sentences

The object being to warn an enemy off, these colours are also called aposematic.

From Project Gutenberg

In 734 synaposematic colouring the warning is genuine, in pseud-aposematic it is a sham.

From Project Gutenberg