Symbiote

/ˈsɪm.bi.oʊt/ noun

Definition

An organism that lives in a close partnership with another organism, where both usually benefit from the relationship.

Etymology

From Greek 'sym-' (together) and 'biote' (life), coined in the late 1800s to describe organisms in mutualistic relationships like clownfish and sea anemones.

Kelly Says

Your gut bacteria are your symbiotes—they help you digest food while you provide them a warm home. Without them, you couldn't survive, yet we rarely think about these invisible partnerships happening inside us right now.

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