cryptid definition

English

Etymology

From crypt +‎ -id. English usage 1983; coined by John E. Wall in the ISC Newsletter.

Noun

cryptid (plural cryptids)

1. (cryptozoology) A creature known only from folklore or legend, the existence of which is not proven by scientific observation.
   • 1999, Steve Burgess, "Loren Coleman, Loch Ness snowman of cryptozoology," salon.com, 16 Aug,

     Now comes perhaps the cleverest tag of all: cryptozoology. It refers to the search for new animals, animals dwelling in unexpected places, and most importantly for "X-Files" scriptwriters, "cryptids"—legendary creatures such as the yeti.

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