free–living

adjective free–liv·ing \ˈfrē-ˈli-viŋ\

Definition of FREE-LIVING

: marked by more than usual freedom in the gratification of appetites

a : not fixed to the substrate but capable of motility <a free–living protozoan>

b : being metabolically independent : neither parasitic nor symbiotic <a free–living adult hairworm>

1818

Medical Dictionary

adjective free–liv·ing \ˈfrē-ˈliv-iŋ\

: not fixed to the substrate but capable of motility <a free–living protozoan>

: being metabolically independent : neither parasitic nor symbiotic

Next Word in the Dictionary: freeloadPrevious Word in the Dictionary: free–liverAll Words Near: free-living

What made you want to look up free-living? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).

Put-downs with flair

How to use a word that (literally) drives some people nuts.

Test your vocab with our fun, fast game

Ailurophobia, and 9 other unusual fears