Definition

Relating to animals that control their body temperature by using the temperature of their environment, often referred to as cold-blooded.

Example

Reptiles are ectothermic, meaning they rely on external heat sources to maintain their body temperature.

Conversation

Did you know that some animals are ectothermic?

Yeah, I've heard that they rely on their environment to regulate their body heat.

Exactly! It’s fascinating how they adapt to different temperatures.

Right? It must be tough for them in colder climates.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Ectothermic → It is formed from "ecto-" (from Greek "ektos", meaning outside) and "thermē" (from Greek, meaning heat). The word describes organisms that rely on external sources of heat to regulate their body temperature.

Memory Tip

Think of 'outside' ('ecto-') heat ('thermē') to remember that ectothermic refers to animals that depend on external heat sources.

Visually Confused Words