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Symbiosis Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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symbiosis

[ˌsɪmbɪˈəʊsɪs ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

biology

The interaction between two different organisms living in close physical association, typically to the advantage of both.

Synonyms

cooperation, interdependence, mutualism.

Examples of usage

  • The fungi form symbiosis with the roots of plants.
  • The relationship between bees and flowers is a classic example of symbiosis.
  • The coral reef ecosystem is a result of symbiosis between corals and algae.
Context #2 | Noun

sociology

A relationship or interaction between two people or groups that benefits both or all involved.

Synonyms

collaboration, mutually beneficial relationship, partnership.

Examples of usage

  • The symbiosis between the government and the private sector is essential for economic growth.
  • The symbiosis between different ethnic groups in the community promotes harmony and understanding.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Biology

  • Symbiosis can be mutualistic (both benefit), commensal (one benefits, the other is unharmed), or parasitic (one benefits at the other's expense).
  • Coral reefs are classic examples of symbiosis, where coral and algae live together and help each other thrive.
  • Certain types of fungi and plants engage in symbiosis, with fungi aiding plants in nutrient absorption and plants providing sugars to fungi.

Environmental Science

  • Symbiotic relationships can enhance biodiversity, leading to healthier ecosystems.
  • Pollinators like bees exhibit a symbiotic relationship with flowering plants – the plants provide nectar, and the bees help them reproduce.
  • In farming, the practice of companion planting uses symbiosis, where different crops are grown together to increase yields and protect against pests.

Culture

  • The concept of symbiosis has been used in literature as a metaphor for cooperation among people or societies.
  • Art representations, such as in murals or sculptures, often depict symbiotic relationships in nature, highlighting interconnectedness.
  • In pop culture, movies and shows involving alien life forms sometimes explore symbiotic relationships to illustrate themes of cooperation versus competition.

Psychology

  • The idea of symbiosis extends to human relationships, where healthy partnerships can create mutual benefits.
  • In developmental psychology, the symbiotic phase describes early infant-caregiver relationships, critical for emotional development.
  • Understanding symbiotic behavior can play a role in counseling, emphasizing teamwork and support systems in personal growth.

Origin of 'symbiosis'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Greek 'symbiosis', meaning 'living together'.
  • It was first used in English in the 19th century, gaining popularity in biological contexts.
  • The prefix 'sym-' means 'together', while 'bio' relates to life.

The term 'symbiosis' was coined by the German mycologist Heinrich Anton de Bary in 1879 to describe the close interactions between different organisms. The concept has since been widely used in biology and sociology to describe mutually beneficial relationships. The study of symbiosis has contributed greatly to our understanding of how different species coexist and thrive together.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #21,847, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.