Definition

A type of organism that lives on the surface of another living organism, often benefiting from it without harming it.

Example

The epizoon attached itself to the whale's skin, feeding on the algae.

Conversation

Did you know that an epizoon is basically an organism that lives on another organism?

I had no idea! That's really interesting.

Yeah, it’s fascinating how nature works with these relationships.

Totally! I love learning about these kinds of things.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Epizoon is formed from "epi-" (meaning upon or over) and "zoon" (from Greek "zōon", meaning animal). The word refers to an organism that lives on the surface of another animal, hence the meaning of living upon an animal.

Memory Tip

Think of an organism that lives 'upon' ('epi-') another 'animal' ('zoon') — that's what epizoon means.

Visually Confused Words