diapause

/daɪˈæpɔːz/

Definitions

1. noun

a state of inactivity and dormancy in certain animals, such as insects and amphibians, during periods of adverse environmental conditions, allowing them to conserve energy and survive until conditions become favorable again

“The scientist studied the diapause of monarch butterflies to understand their migratory patterns.”

Synonyms

  • dormancy
  • hibernation
  • torpor

Antonyms

  • activity
  • wakefulness