ENGLISH
REFERENCE

symbiotic

adj.
C1 Advanced US //ˌsɪmbiˈɑtɪk// UK //sˌɪmbaɪˈɒtɪk// sym·bi·ot·ic Informal

adj. describing a relationship where two different things or people depend on each other to survive or succeed. In space, it often means two stars or planets that share the same orbit and energy.

adj. describing a relationship between two organisms or entities that benefits both parties. In an astronomical context, it refers to a binary star system or planetary configuration where the bodies are mutually dependent for stability.


SIMPLE

The two stars form a symbiotic system.

CONTEXTUAL

Astronomers observed a symbiotic relationship between the two planets, where their gravitational pull kept both in a stable orbit.

COMPLEX

The symbiotic nature of the binary star system allows both stars to exchange material, preventing either from collapsing under its own gravity for millions of years.

Origin

From symbiosis + -tic, from Ancient Greek συμβίωσις (sumbíōsis), from σύν (sún, “with”) + βίος (bíos, “life”).

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