(ほごしょく)

ほごしょく
noun
protective coloration; camouflage color
1. protective coloration; camouflage color
Body coloring that lets an animal blend into its surroundings so that predators or prey cannot easily see it. A biology term, also used figuratively for anything that helps someone go unnoticed.
カメレオンは保護色(ほごしょく)()つ。
Chameleons have protective coloration.
この(むし)()っぱと(おな)保護色(ほごしょく)をしている。
This insect has protective coloration the same as the leaves.
(ゆき)(なか)では(しろ)()保護色(ほごしょく)になり、(てき)から()(まも)る。
In the snow, white fur becomes protective coloration and protects them from enemies.

A biology term for coloring that camouflages an animal against its background. Contrast with 警告色(けいこくしょく) (warning coloration), which makes an animal conspicuous.

COMMON COLLOCATIONS:

  • 保護色(ほごしょく)をしている: to have protective coloration
  • 保護色(ほごしょく)になる: to serve as camouflage
  • (まわ)りの保護色(ほごしょく): camouflage matching the surroundings

SIMILAR WORDS:

  • 迷彩(めいさい): camouflage pattern — man-made, as on military uniforms and vehicles
  • 擬態(ぎたい): mimicry — imitating another object or creature in shape as well as color