diapause

American  

[dahy-uh-pawz] / ˈdaɪ əˌpɔz /

noun

1. a period of hormonally controlled quiescence, especially in immature insects, characterized by cessation of growth and reduction of metabolic activity, often occurring seasonally or when environmental conditions are unfavorable.

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verb (used without object)

diapaused, diapausing

1. to undergo diapause.

diapause British  

/ ˈdaɪəˌpɔːz /

noun

1. a period of suspended development and growth accompanied by decreased metabolism in insects and some other animals. It is correlated with seasonal changes

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Etymology

Origin of diapause

1890–95; < Greek diápausis; see dia-, pause

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Example Sentences

See Examples For:

diapause

Like many insects, ladybirds enter a state of inactivity over winter known as diapause – an insect version of hibernation.

From BBC ● Oct. 7, 2025

To survive the annual dry season, the fish's embryos enter a state of extreme suspended animation or "diapause" for approximately 8 months.

From Science Daily ● May 28, 2024

"During diapause, they seem to have much higher levels of triglycerides and very long chain fatty acids, which are forms of storage and also perhaps aid with long-term protection of the organism's membranes."

From Science Daily ● May 28, 2024

But Dr. Lysiak said there is a phenomenon that could explain the first scenario: delayed implantation, also known as embryonic diapause.

From New York Times ● Jul. 25, 2023

The embryos develop inside, and the immature insects rest for about 9 1/2 months in suspended development, or diapause.

From Seattle Times ● Oct. 13, 2022

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