cleptobiosis

noun

clep·​to·​biosis
¦kleptō+
plural cleptobioses
: a mutual relation in which members of one species (as of ants) habitually steal food from another see lestobiosis
cleptobiotic
"+
adjective

Word History

Etymology

New Latin, from clepto- (from Greek klepto- theft, from kleptein to steal) + -biosis

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Dictionary Entries Near cleptobiosis

clepsydra

cleptobiosis

cleptomania

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Cite this Entry

“Cleptobiosis.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/cleptobiosis. Accessed 28 Nov. 2024.

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