trophallaxis

noun

troph·​al·​lax·​is ˌtrō-fə-ˈlak-səs How to pronounce trophallaxis (audio)
: exchange of food (as from special glands) between social insects (such as ants or termites)

Examples of trophallaxis in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web The researchers trained the computer to identify a behavior called trophallaxis, in which honey bees feed their fellow workers by regurgitating food from a pouch called a crop. Erik Stokstad, Science | AAAS, 28 Apr. 2020

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'trophallaxis.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

Etymology

New Latin, from troph- + Greek allaxis exchange, from allassein to change, exchange, from allos other — more at else

First Known Use

1918, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of trophallaxis was in 1918

Dictionary Entries Near trophallaxis

Cite this Entry

“Trophallaxis.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/trophallaxis. Accessed 19 Mar. 2024.

More from Merriam-Webster on trophallaxis

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!