noun
symbiosis
sihm-beye-OH-sihs
Symbiosis (noun) means a close, long-term relationship between different species that benefits at least one, and often both. Example: “The clownfish and sea anemone live in a classic symbiosis.”
noun
1
A close, long-term relationship between different species that benefits at least one, and often both.
"The clownfish and sea anemone live in a classic symbiosis."
"Bees and flowering plants have evolved a mutual symbiosis over millions of years."
2
A close, cooperative relationship between different groups or types of people.
"The city thrives on a symbiosis between its universities and its tech industry."
How to use symbiosis
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA close relationship where two different things (species, groups, or ideas) live together and rely on each other.
Common mistake
Symbiosis doesn't always mean both sides benefit equally — biologists distinguish this general term from mutualism, where both sides clearly gain.
Common pairings
mutual symbiosis
a symbiosis between
live in symbiosis
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Word forms
- Plural
- symbioses
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
The clownfish and sea anemone live in a classic _____.
Etymology
From Ancient Greek symbiosis, "living together," from syn- ("with") + bios ("life").
Synonyms
View more →Related words
Rhymes for symbiosis
meiosis
mitosis
osmosis
stenosis
acidosis
zoonosis
cyanosis
necrosis
neurosis
hypnosis
fibrosis
silicosis
See all rhymes for symbiosis →
Frequently asked questions
What does “symbiosis” mean?
The word “symbiosis” means a close, long-term relationship between different species that benefits at least one, and often both. In plain terms, a close relationship where two different things (species, groups, or ideas) live together and rely on each other.
How do you pronounce “symbiosis”?
“Symbiosis” is pronounced sihm-beye-OH-sihs (/sɪmbaɪˈoʊsɪs/ in IPA).
How do you use “symbiosis” in a sentence?
Here is “symbiosis” used in a sentence: “The clownfish and sea anemone live in a classic symbiosis.”
What part of speech is “symbiosis”?
“Symbiosis” is a noun.
Where does the word “symbiosis” come from?
The word “symbiosis” comes from Ancient Greek. From Ancient Greek symbiosis, "living together," from syn- ("with") + bios ("life").
How many meanings does “symbiosis” have?
“Symbiosis” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a close, long-term relationship between different species that benefits at least one, and often both.
