-colous

1. a combining form meaning “inhabiting” the thing or place specified by the initial element, used in the formation of compound words:

   nidicolous.

-colous

combining form

1. inhabiting or living on

   arenicolous

Word History and Origins

Origin of -colous¹

< Latin -col ( a ), combining form representing colere to inhabit ( colonus ) + -ous

Word History and Origins

Origin of -colous¹

from Latin -cola inhabitant + -ous ; related to colere to inhabit