noun

aposematism

ap-oh-si-MAT-iz-uhm

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Aposematism (noun) means an adaptation, such as a warning colouration, that signals danger to potential predators and discourages them from attacking. Example: “The wasp's black-and-yellow stripes are a classic example of aposematism.”

noun

biology An adaptation, such as a warning colouration, that signals danger to potential predators and discourages them from attacking.

"The wasp's black-and-yellow stripes are a classic example of aposematism."

"Scientists study aposematism to understand how bright colours can protect an animal from being eaten."

"Some frogs rely on aposematism, pairing toxic skin with vivid markings that predators learn to avoid."

How to use aposematism

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishIt is the strategy of an animal advertising its danger with a bold appearance rather than hiding.

When to use it

This is a specialist biology term, mostly found in zoology writing rather than everyday speech.

Memory tip

Picture a warning sign on an animal's body and the word's meaning becomes easy to remember.

Trace the full origin ↓

Common pairings

classic example of aposematism aposematism in frogs study of aposematism forms of aposematism

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C2 · Advanced serendipity Fortunate discoveries made entirely by accident.

Gen Z slang rizz Charm — the ability to attract a romantic interest.

B2 · Intermediate empathy The capacity to share another person’s feelings.

C1 · Advanced nonchalant Casually calm and relaxed; unconcerned.

Internet slang delulu Delusional — believing something against the odds.

Etymology nostalgia Greek nostos “return home” + algos “pain”.

C2 · Advanced serendipity Fortunate discoveries made entirely by accident.

Gen Z slang rizz Charm — the ability to attract a romantic interest.

B2 · Intermediate empathy The capacity to share another person’s feelings.

C1 · Advanced nonchalant Casually calm and relaxed; unconcerned.

Internet slang delulu Delusional — believing something against the odds.

Etymology nostalgia Greek nostos “return home” + algos “pain”.

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The wasp's black-and-yellow stripes are a classic example of _____.

Etymology

Built from the Greek prefix apo-, meaning away from, joined to a form of sema, the Greek word for a sign or mark, plus the suffix -ism. The related adjective aposematic was coined by the British biologist Edward Bagnall Poulton in his 1890 book on animal colouration, and the noun aposematism followed from it.

Origin: Ancient Greek

Rhymes for aposematism

rheumatism

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Frequently asked questions

What does aposematism mean in biology?

It refers to a warning signal, most often bright or contrasting colouring, that an animal displays to tell predators it is dangerous or unpleasant to eat.

Is aposematism the same as camouflage?

No, they work in opposite ways. Camouflage helps an animal hide, while aposematism makes it stand out so predators recognise and avoid it.

Which animals show aposematism?

Many toxic or stinging species do, including certain wasps, frogs and caterpillars, which use bold colour patterns to advertise that they are best left alone.

What is the meaning of aposematism?

"aposematism" (noun) means an adaptation, such as a warning colouration, that signals danger to potential predators and discourages them from attacking.