Commensal

Origin

From Old French commensal, from Medieval Latin commensalis.

Full definition of commensal

Adjective

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

Noun

1. (ecology) An organism partaking in a commensal relationship.
• 2001, Yann Martel, Life of Pi, Canongate Books (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.

Related terms

• commensalism
• commensality
• endocommensal, endocommensalism