A fruit or seed structure that is hidden, enclosed, or not readily visible, particularly in botanical contexts.
From 'crypto-' (Greek kryptos 'hidden') plus 'carp' (Greek karpos 'fruit'). This botanical term emerged in the 19th century to describe plant fruits with structures that are concealed within other plant tissues or structures.
Many plants hide their fruit inside protective layers or keep it concealed until it's ripe—this word names that botanical hide-and-seek. Figs are cryptocarps: the actual fruit is hidden inside what looks like a solid pod.
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