Identify the correct meaning of the word:
Cryptic
A. Puzzling
B. Silence
C. Precise
D. Vault

Hint: The word cryptic means something that has a mysterious element to it; something that may look normal but if looked at closely, there is something that takes time and effort to be understood.

Complete step by step answer:
Option A – Puzzling: This means the characteristic of something that is confusing and not easily understood. This is close to the given definition; hence this is the right option.
Option B – Silence: This option means the absence of noise or sound of any kind. This is not the meaning of the given word; hence this is not the right option.
Example: Silence is mandatory in the library.
Option C – Precise: This option means something that is exact or accurate. It is a way to pinpoint something or a detail of something exactly the way it is.
Example: That precise part of the clue helped the detective find out the criminal.
Option D – Vault: This option means a strong room or a closet that is used for the purpose of storage, of items that are of high value. A vault is usually for safekeeping of things that are precious in nature and need high levels of security.
Example: The treasure we found is locked safely in the vault.

So, the correct answer is “Option A”.

Note:
The opposites of cryptic are – obvious, clear, definite, certain, etc.
The word cryptic is used in games and puzzles to give a sense of mystery to them. In biology, cryptic is the nature of a creature or a plant which has the characteristic to hide itself from the enemy easily.