Definition

Referring to a virus that can grow in the tissues of a different organism than its usual host.

Example

The xenotropic virus was able to infect the cells of a different species, demonstrating its adaptability.

Conversation

Did you hear about that new virus they found in the lab?

Yeah, I read it was xenotropic and affects other species.

It's crazy how it can replicate in cells that aren't even its host.

I know! It makes you wonder how many more xenotropic viruses are out there.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Xenotropic → It is formed from "xeno-" (from Greek "xenos", meaning foreign or strange) and "tropic" (from Greek "tropos", meaning turning or orientation). The word describes something that has an affinity for foreign or different environments, particularly in biological contexts.

Memory Tip

Think of 'foreign' ('xeno-') and 'turning' or 'orientation' ('tropic') to remember that 'xenotropic' refers to something that is oriented towards or has an affinity for foreign environments.

Visually Confused Words