inquiline
Upper-Intermediate (B2)
IPA: /ɪnˈkwɪlaɪn/
KK: /ɪnˈkwɪlaɪn/
adjective
Definition
Describing an organism that lives in the habitat of another organism, often without harming it.
Example
The inquiline species thrived within the hollow of the tree, sharing space with the host without causing any damage.
Conversation
Did you know some animals are actually inquiline in others' homes?
Really? That sounds fascinating!
Yeah, it’s interesting how they adapt to living together.
Nature is full of surprises, isn’t it?
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
commensal
symbiotic
cohabiting
Antonyms
parasitic
independent
solitary
noun
Definition
A creature that lives in the home or nest of another animal, often without harming it and sometimes benefiting from the relationship.
Example
The inquiline made its home in the abandoned burrow of a rabbit.
Conversation
Did you know some animals are inquilines in other species' nests?
Really? I had no idea!
Yeah, it's fascinating how they can live together like that.
Root Explanation
Inquiline → It is formed from "in-" (meaning in or on) and "cŭlīna" (from Latin, meaning kitchen or dwelling). The word refers to an organism that lives in the dwelling of another, particularly in a symbiotic relationship.
Memory Tip
Think of something that lives 'in' ('in-') another's 'dwelling' ('cŭlīna') — that's why inquiline refers to an organism that resides in the home of another.
Visually Confused Words
induline
aquiline
inulin