Aposematic

Part of speech: adjective

Pronunciation: /ˌæpə(ʊ)sɪˈmætɪk/

Definitions

1. Functioning as a visual deterrent to potential predators through distinct coloration indicating toxicity or lack of edibility
2. Characterized by vivid hues that convey danger or unpalatability to other beings, thus preventing attacks
3. Used to describe bright or contrasting colors that signal toxicity or unpalatability to discourage predators from attacking or consuming an organism

Etymology: Aposematic is built from two Greek-derived parts. The prefix "apo-" means "away" or "off", and "sematic" comes from Greek "sēma", meaning "sign" or "signal". Put together, the word describes a warning signal that pushes predators away, which is exactly what bright colours on an animal do when they advertise that it is toxic or foul-tasting. The idea behind the word is that conspicuous colour can be a defence rather than a disguise. Many brightly coloured frogs, insects and snakes carry poisons, and predators that learn to avoid them benefit by not being attacked, so the warning pattern itself survives. The word is a technical coinage from modern biology, built from classical elements rather than used by the ancient Greeks, who had no such concept.