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phoresy

Upper-Intermediate (B2)

IPA: /ˈfɔːrəsi/

KK: /ˈfɔːrəsi/

noun
Definition

A type of relationship where one organism carries another organism of a different species, often seen in certain insects and fish.


Example

In a fascinating example of phoresy, the beetle carried the mite on its back to a new location.


Conversation
Sloth A
Have you ever heard of the term phoresy?
Sloth B
Yeah, it's that relationship where one animal carries another, right?
Sloth A
Exactly! It's fascinating how some creatures rely on others for transport through phoresy.
Sloth B
It really shows how interconnected nature is, doesn't it?

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
transportation
carriage
conveyance
Antonyms
detachment
separation
isolation
Root Explanation

Phoresy is derived from the Greek word "phorein" (meaning to bear or carry) and the suffix "-sy" (indicating a state or condition). The term refers to the condition of one organism carrying another, often seen in ecological contexts.

Memory Tip

Think of 'bearing' or 'carrying' ('phorein') to remember that 'phoresy' describes a state where one organism carries another.

Visually Confused Words
poesy
horsy
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