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Word of the Day Tuesday, June 9, 2026

saprophyte

/sæˈprɒfaɪt/ noun · British & US
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What does saprophyte mean?

noun

A plant that obtains its nutrients by decomposing and absorbing the organic matter of other plants, typically growing on or near the dead or decaying matter of other plants.

Example

"The forest floor was home to a variety of saprophytes, including fungi and flowering plants that thrived on the decaying leaves and branches."

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

Synonyms for saprophyte

Antonyms of saprophyte

Rhymes with saprophyte

Etymologically related