The Complete Vocabulary Builder Workbook by BETTER WORDS R. B. Skinner

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camouflage

noun

/ˈkæm əˌflɑʒ/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of camouflage

A set of techniques and materials used to conceal or disguise something, typically in order to blend it with its surroundings and make it difficult to detect.
"The chameleon's remarkable camouflage allowed it to disappear into the lush foliage effortlessly."

Detailed meaning of camouflage

It is a noun that encompasses various methods employed in nature, military operations, and everyday life. In nature, animals and insects use camouflage to blend in with their environment, enabling them to evade predators or sneak up on their prey. In military contexts, camouflage plays a crucial role in hiding soldiers, equipment, or vehicles, making them less visible and protecting them from enemy detection. This technique often involves the use of colors, patterns, and materials that mimic the surrounding environment. In everyday life, camouflage can also refer to clothing or accessories designed to imitate natural elements or patterns, primarily for fashion purposes. Whether in nature, warfare, or fashion, camouflage serves as an effective tool for concealment and deception, enabling objects or individuals to go unnoticed or blend seamlessly into their surroundings.

Example sentences containing camouflage

1. The soldier carefully applied camouflage paint to his face before heading out on the mission.
2. The tiger's striped fur acted as natural camouflage, helping it stalk its prey without being seen.
3. The sniper expertly utilized the surrounding vegetation as camouflage, blending in perfectly with the environment.
4. The fashion designer incorporated a subtle camouflage pattern into the latest collection, giving it a modern and edgy twist.
5. The insect's body was adorned with intricate patterns, providing excellent camouflage against the forest floor.
6. The army deployed a specialized unit trained in camouflage techniques to gather intelligence behind enemy lines.

History and etymology of camouflage

The noun 'camouflage' has an intriguing etymology that can be traced back to the French language. It originated during the early 20th century and is derived from the French word 'camoufler,' which means 'to disguise' or 'to hide.' 'Camoufler' itself is believed to have been formed from two other French words: 'camouflet,' which referred to a puff of smoke or a smoke screen used for deception, and 'camoufle,' meaning 'to blow smoke in someone's face.' These French terms have their roots in the slang of World War I soldiers and are thought to be influenced by the French word 'camouflet,' which means a slight or snub. The evolution of 'camouflage' from smoke-based deception to a broader set of techniques and materials for concealing or disguising something reflects its fascinating journey through language and military strategy, emphasizing the art of blending with one's surroundings to avoid detection.

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Further usage examples of camouflage

1. The hunter wore a camouflage jacket and hat to blend in with the forest while tracking game.
2. The bird built its nest high up in the tree, hidden among the leaves, using natural materials for camouflage.
3. The predator patiently observed the prey, waiting for the perfect moment to strike, aided by its excellent camouflage.
4. The company developed a new type of fabric with advanced camouflage properties, ideal for military applications.
5. The lizard changed its skin color to match the rocks it perched on, using camouflage as a defense mechanism against predators.
6. The soldier wore effective camouflage in the jungle.
7. The chameleon's skin is a natural form of camouflage.
8. The artist used vibrant colors to break the camouflage.
9. The sniper relied on stealth and camouflage.
10. The animal's fur serves as effective camouflage.
11. The octopus can change its skin's camouflage pattern.
12. The military developed advanced camouflage technology.
13. The hunter used natural foliage for his camouflage.
14. The butterfly's wings have intricate camouflage patterns.
15. The spy used a disguise and camouflage for infiltration.
16. The fashion designer incorporated camouflage patterns.
17. The vehicle's paint job featured desert camouflage.
18. The hiker wore gear with woodland camouflage.
19. The bird's plumage provides aerial camouflage.
20. The insect's shape mimics tree bark for camouflage.
21. The army tanks were painted in desert camouflage.
22. The sniper's ghillie suit blended with forest camouflage.
23. The photographer captured the animal's natural camouflage.
24. The submarine's paint allowed underwater camouflage.
25. The lizard's coloration serves as desert camouflage.