Hello, you have come here looking for the meaning of the word
definitive host. In DICTIOUS you will not only get to know all the dictionary meanings for the word
definitive host, but we will also tell you about its etymology, its characteristics and you will know how to say
definitive host in singular and plural. Everything you need to know about the word
definitive host you have here. The definition of the word
definitive host will help you to be more precise and correct when speaking or writing your texts. Knowing the definition of
definitive host, as well as those of other words, enriches your vocabulary and provides you with more and better linguistic resources.
English
Noun
definitive host (plural definitive hosts)
- (ecology) The host in which a parasite reproduces sexually.
2002, Jack Chernin, Parasitology, →ISBN, page 14:They remain within the intermediate host until it is eaten by the definitive host.
Usage notes
- A plural noun representing all members of a species might be paired with definitive host in the singular. Both "coyotes are definitive hosts of Neospora caninum" and "opossums are the definitive host of S. neurona" appear in the literature.
Translations
host in which parasite reproduces