epizoic

[ ep-uh-zoh-ik ]

adjective

, Biology.

1. externally parasitic.

epizoic

/ ˌɛpɪˈzəʊɪk /

adjective

1. (of an animal or plant) growing or living on the exterior of a living animal
2. (of plants) having seeds or fruit dispersed by animals

epizoic

/ ĕp′ĭ-zō′ĭk /

1. Living or growing on the external surface of an animal.

Derived Forms

• ˌepiˈzoism, noun

Other Words From

• epi·zoism noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of epizoic¹

First recorded in 1855–60; epizo(on) + -ic

Example Sentences

Our epizoic literature is becoming so extensive that nobody is safe from its ad infinitum progeny.

From Project Gutenberg

Like many epizoic or parasitic insects, Hemimerus is wingless, eyeless and has relatively short and strong legs.

From Project Gutenberg