Word-Built World: thanatosis

Burmeister’s leaf frog exhibiting thanatosis
Bahia, Brazil. Photo: Popovkin / Wikimedia

A.Word.A.Daywith Anu Garg

thanatosis

PRONUNCIATION:

(than-uh-TOH-suhs) 

MEANING:

noun: The act of pretending to be dead, often as a defensive tactic against predators or enemies.

ETYMOLOGY:

From Greek thanatos (death). Earliest documented use: 1860

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