commensal /kəˈmɛnsəl/adjective 2noun 2forms 1 adjective2 •Of a form of symbiosis in which one organism derives a benefit while the other is unaffected.The fish (AMPHIPRION PERCULA) "intel-intel" of the blacks, is said to be commensal (literally, dining at the same table with its host), as distinguished from the parasite, which lives on its host. — 1911 •Eating at the same table. noun2 •An organism partaking in a commensal relationship. •One who eats at the same table.Colville ordered it, and was sorry when the last of his commensals, slightly bowing him a good-night, left him alone to it. — 1886 formscommensals
