Meaning

(ecology) Of, or relating to symbiosis; living together..

Definitions by Sense

1. (ecology) Of, or relating to symbiosis; living together.
2. (by extension, informal) Of a relationship with mutual benefit between two individuals, organisms, or groups.
3. (astronomy) A symbiotic star.

Example Sentences

A lichen is a fungus with symbiotic algae among its cells.

Orchids rely on fungi to reproduce. Their tiny seeds don't have any on-board nutrients (like beans and apples) and will not germinate until they are infected by a symbiotic fungus which supplies them with food. Known as a protocorm, this tiny orchid-fungus ball grows, turns green and eventually starts to photosynthesise.

[Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's] arguably symbiotic relationship with Hamas goes back to his election in 1996, when he upset left-wing incumbent Shimon Peres following a spate of Hamas bombings, which Mr. Netanyahu said proved the peace process could not be trusted.

While pro-tech influencers like podcast host Lex Fridman have for years formed a symbiotic relationship with tech elites like Elon Musk, some firms have decided this year to cut out the middleman entirely.

Word Forms

• symbiotics

Synonyms for symbiotic

Related Words

When Should You Use Symbiotic?

Use symbiotic when its meaning, tone and grammar fit the full sentence. A synonym is not always a direct replacement.

Practice This Word

Frequently Asked Questions