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ectoparasite

noun
ec·​to·​par·​a·​site | \ ˌek-tō-ˈper-ə-ˌsīt How to pronounce ectoparasite (audio) , -ˈpa-rə-\

Definition of ectoparasite

: a parasite that lives on the exterior of its host
Other Words from ectoparasite Example Sentences Learn More about ectoparasite

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Other Words from ectoparasite

ectoparasitic \ ˌek-​tō-​ˌper-​ə-​ˈsi-​tik How to pronounce ectoparasitic (audio) , -​ˌpa-​rə-​ \ adjective

Examples of ectoparasite in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

 Mature sea lice are gray, lentil-sized crustaceans, also called ectoparasites, that look like small, fanged tadpoles. — Amanda Little, WIRED, "The Laser Battle Against Blood-Sucking Parasites of the Deep," 23 May 2018 All the cats had irritated, painful ears consistent with a contagious ectoparasite, the document stated. — Jennifer Stockinger, Twin Cities, "MN home condemned, woman charged after 30 sick, flea-ridden cats found," 23 May 2017

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'ectoparasite.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

First Known Use of ectoparasite

1861, in the meaning defined above

History and Etymology for ectoparasite

International Scientific Vocabulary

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More Definitions for ectoparasite

ectoparasite

noun
ec·​to·​par·​a·​site | \ ˌek-tō-ˈpar-ə-ˌsīt How to pronounce ectoparasite (audio) \

Medical Definition of ectoparasite

: a parasite that lives on the exterior of its host — compare endoparasite

Other Words from ectoparasite

ectoparasitic \ -​ˌpar-​ə-​ˈsit-​ik How to pronounce ectoparasitic (audio) \ adjective

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