Definition

A type of organism that can survive and thrive in extreme environments, such as very high or low temperatures, high pressure, or extreme acidity or salinity.

Example

Scientists study extremophiles to understand how life can exist in harsh conditions, like those found on other planets.

Conversation

Did you know there are organisms called extremophiles that can survive in crazy conditions?

Really? Like what kind of conditions?

Some of them live in hot springs or even in ice caps!

That's fascinating! I wonder how they adapt to such extreme environments.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Extremophile → It is formed from "extremo-" (from Latin "extremus", meaning outermost or extreme) and "-phile" (from Greek "philos", meaning loving). The word describes an organism that loves or thrives in extreme conditions.

Memory Tip

Think of 'extreme' conditions that an organism 'loves' — that's what an extremophile is.

Visually Confused Words