cryptozoology: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
LowFormal (technical/niche), sometimes humorous
Quick answer
What does “cryptozoology” mean?
The study of or search for animals whose existence is unproven, such as Bigfoot or the Loch Ness Monster.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
The study of or search for animals whose existence is unproven, such as Bigfoot or the Loch Ness Monster.
A field of inquiry, often regarded as pseudoscience, concerned with legendary creatures from folklore, myth, and anecdotal sightings that are not recognized by mainstream science.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant lexical or grammatical differences. Usage is identical, though regional legendary creatures referenced may differ (e.g., Loch Ness Monster in the UK vs. Bigfoot in the US).
Connotations
Similar connotations in both varieties: often skeptical, associated with enthusiasts rather than credentialed scientists.
Frequency
Equally rare in both dialects, used primarily in specific niche discussions or media.
Grammar
How to Use “cryptozoology” in a Sentence
N (uncountable)the N of NP (the cryptozoology of North America)Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “cryptozoology” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- Some enthusiasts have tried to cryptozoologise the Welsh countryside, searching for lake monsters.
American English
- He cryptozoologizes the Pacific Northwest, convinced Bigfoot is out there.
adjective
British English
- The cryptozoological society meets monthly to discuss recent sightings.
American English
- She maintains a cryptozoological blog dedicated to mythical beasts.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Not used.
Academic
Used critically in anthropology or sociology to discuss belief systems; not a recognized biological science discipline.
Everyday
Rare; used when discussing mythical creatures humorously or with skepticism.
Technical
Used within its own niche community; dismissed as pseudoscience in formal scientific contexts.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “cryptozoology”
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “cryptozoology”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “cryptozoology”
- Misspelling as 'cryptozology' (missing an 'o').
- Using it as a synonym for mainstream 'zoology'.
- Pronouncing the 'crypto-' as in 'cryptocurrency' (/ˈkrɪp.toʊ/) instead of /ˌkrɪp.təʊ/.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No, it is generally considered a pseudoscience by the mainstream scientific community because it relies on anecdotal evidence and lacks falsifiable hypotheses.
A cryptozoologist.
Bigfoot (Sasquatch), the Loch Ness Monster, the Yeti (Abominable Snowman), and the Chupacabra.
No, while famous for 'monsters', cryptozoology can involve any animal whose existence is questionable, including smaller or less dramatic creatures from local folklore.
The study of or search for animals whose existence is unproven, such as Bigfoot or the Loch Ness Monster.
Cryptozoology is usually formal (technical/niche), sometimes humorous in register.
Cryptozoology: in British English it is pronounced /ˌkrɪp.təʊ.zəʊˈɒl.ə.dʒi/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˌkrɪp.toʊ.zoʊˈɑː.lə.dʒi/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think: CRYPTO (hidden/secret) + ZOO (animals) + LOGY (study) = the study of hidden animals.
Conceptual Metaphor
THE PURSUIT OF HIDDEN KNOWLEDGE IS A TREASURE HUNT (seeking cryptids is like searching for lost treasure).
Practice
Quiz
Cryptozoology is best described as: