free-living

adjective

free-liv·​ing ˈfrē-ˈli-viŋ 

1

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

2

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 nematode

Examples of free-living in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Together, these features support the endosymbiotic theory of their origin—these organelles originated as free-living organisms that were incorporated into eukaryotic cells over evolutionary time. — Encyclopedia Britannica, 18 June 2026

While further data will be needed to firm up any link, the researchers highlight that physicians shouldn’t overlook potential signs of free-living amoebas. — Beth Mole, ArsTechnica, 1 May 2026

The team found that 64% of modern breed dogs carry some trace of wolf ancestry; meanwhile, every free-living village dog contains wolf DNA. — Jay Kakade december 09, New Atlas, 9 Dec. 2025

These are not pets but are free-living animals that are dependent on their close association with human environments. — Logan Kistler, The Conversation, 24 Nov. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1818, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for free-living

• almsgiving
• caregiving
• forgiving
• misgiving
• nonliving
• reliving
• thanksgiving
• giving
• living
• sieving
• unforgiving

Medical Definition

free-living

adjective

free-liv·​ing ˈfrē-ˈliv-iŋ 

1

: not fixed to the substrate but capable of motility

a free-living protozoan

2

: being metabolically independent : neither parasitic nor symbiotic