commensal

English

Etymology

From Medieval Latin commensalis.

Adjective

commensal (not comparable)

1. (ecology) of a form of symbiosis in which one organism derives a benefit while the other is unaffected

Translations

of a form of symbiosis

• Finnish: kommensaalinen (fi)

• Spanish: comensal (es)

Noun

Wikipedia commensal (plural commensals)

1. (ecology) An organism partaking in a commensal relationship.
   • 2001, Yann Martel, Life of Pi, Canongate (2003), ISBN 184195392X, page 260:

     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.

2. One who eats at the same table.

Translations

organism partaking in a commensal relationship

• Bulgarian: паразит (bg) (parazit)
• Finnish: pöytävieras (fi)

• Spanish: comensal (es)

Related terms

• commensalism
• commensality

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French

Etymology

From Medieval Latin commensalis.

Adjective

commensal m (feminine commensale, masculine plural commensaux, feminine plural commensales)

1. commensal