Pronunciation: [kɹˈɛstɪd] (IPA) 
The word "crested" is spelled with a "c-r-e-s-t-e-d" in English and pronounced as /ˈkrɛstɪd/. The "cr" sound is a cluster, where both "c" and "r" are pronounced individually. The "e" is pronounced as a short "e" sound, followed by a consonantal "s" sound, which is also pronounced separately. Finally, the word ends with a "t" sound, indicated by the letter "d". The word "crested" means having a crest or tuft, usually referring to a bird.
Crested is an adjective that describes something with a crested (or crest-shaped) feature or prominence. The term can refer to various objects or living beings, each possessing a distinct crested characteristic.
In the context of animals, crested typically refers to a raised or elongated tuft of feathers, fur, or scales on the top of the head or along the back. This specialized growth is often brightly colored or patterned, and it serves several purposes such as attracting mates, displaying aggression, or providing camouflaging effects. A famous example is the crested bird species, like the crested pigeon or the crested tit.
Additionally, the term crested can also describe the appearance of certain plants or trees. Some botanical specimens possess a distinctive crest-like shape at the top of their branches or leaves. These crested structures may have variations in color, texture, or density compared to the rest of the plant, enhancing their visual appeal or facilitating unique reproductive mechanisms.
Crested can also be applied metaphorically to describe objects or structures that resemble a crest in their physical form. For instance, a piece of furniture or architecture might feature a crest-shaped ornament or decoration, which stands out prominently.
Overall, crested encompasses a wide range of attributes in various fields, each characterized by the presence of a crest-like appendage, feature, or shape, adding uniqueness and visual interest to the subject at hand.
Adorned with a tuft or crest.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "crested" comes from the Old English word "cristed", which is derived from the Latin word "crista", meaning "a crest or tuft". This Latin root is further connected to the Proto-Indo-European root "*kerd" or "*kred", which means "to rise up" or "to project". The term "crested" specifically refers to the presence of a crest or tuft of feathers, hair, or other raised ornamentation on the head of an animal or the top of an object.
