cryptid

noun

cryp·​tid ˈkrip-təd How to pronounce cryptid (audio)
plural cryptids
: an animal (such as Sasquatch or the Loch Ness Monster) that has been claimed to exist but never proven to exist
Contrary to popular belief, cryptids don't have to be supernatural, mythical or even all that strange—though many popular creatures acquire these characteristics as their legends grow.Hayley Williams
… fighting the Grafton Monster—a monstrous cryptid vaguely resembling a cross between Bigfoot and a seal …Alan Olson

Examples of cryptid in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
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So which cryptid is lucky enough to possibly get an official state designation? Andrew Sheeler, Sacramento Bee, 19 Feb. 2025 Even today, Bigfoot enthusiasts continue to report sightings, and cryptid research organizations regularly explore California's wilderness in search of proof. Matt Robison, Newsweek, 19 Feb. 2025 Mysterious World by Laura Knowles Location: Earth Type: Atlas of mysteries Buy now Welcome to the weird world of cryptids. Pat Tompkins, AFAR Media, 13 Jan. 2025 While the allure of unmasking Bigfoot will continue to captivate many, black bears are likely responsible for most of the sightings attributed to this cryptid, according to an August 2009 article published in the Journal of Biogeography. Scott Travers, Forbes, 26 Oct. 2024 See All Example Sentences for cryptid

Word History

Etymology

crypt- (in crypto-) + -id entry 1

First Known Use

1983, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of cryptid was in 1983

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Cite this Entry

“Cryptid.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/cryptid. Accessed 3 Mar. 2025.

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