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Word of the Day Tuesday, June 9, 2026

heterotrophy

/ˌhɛtəˈtrɒfi/ noun · British & US
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What does heterotrophy mean?

noun

The condition of obtaining nutrients from external sources, rather than from the breakdown of internal stores. This is in contrast to autotrophy, where organisms produce their own food through photosynthesis or chemosynthesis.

Example

"The heterotrophy of plants is essential for their survival, as they rely on external sources of nutrients to grow and thrive."

Definition generated by AI and curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.

Synonyms for heterotrophy

Antonyms of heterotrophy

Rhymes with heterotrophy

Etymologically related