commensal

Etymology

Definitions

1. 1

   Of a form of symbiosis in which one organism derives a benefit while the other is…

   Of a form of symbiosis in which one organism derives a benefit while the other is unaffected.

   • The fish (AMPHIPRION PERCULA) "intel-intel" of the blacks, is said to be commensal (literally, dining at the same table with its host), as distinguished from the parasite, which lives on its host.
2. 2

   Eating at the same table.

3. 3

   An organism partaking in a commensal relationship.

   • The tree did indeed grow right out of the algae, as I had seen from the lifeboat. There was not the least trace of soil. Either there was soil deeper down, or this species of tree was a remarkable instance of a commensal or a parasite.
4. ›+ 1 more definitionshow fewer

   1. 4

      One who eats at the same table.

      • Colville ordered it, and was sorry when the last of his commensals, slightly bowing him a good-night, left him alone to it.
      • Around this tragic central figure are grouped the commensals of the Vauquer pension, Rastignac, the young law-student, with shallow purse and aristocratic connections; […].

The neighborhood

• neighborcommensalism
• neighborcommensality
• neighborendocommensal
• neighborendocommensalism
• neighborectocommensal