intermediate host

noun

1
: a host which is normally used by a parasite in the course of its life cycle and in which it may multiply asexually but not sexually compare definitive host
2

Examples of intermediate host in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Bird flu typically spreads directly from infected birds, from environments contaminated by the virus or through an intermediate host such as another animal. Katie Wiseman, IndyStar, 22 Jan. 2025 These pathogens can jump to humans directly or through intermediate hosts, often via ingestion of contaminated food or water. Melissa Fleur Afshar, MSNBC Newsweek, 24 June 2025 The eggs then get ingested by an intermediate host, such as voles. ArsTechnica, 23 Apr. 2025 Once there, it’s been known to release proteins that seem to affect the behavior of its intermediate host. Michael Irving, New Atlas, 1 Aug. 2024 See All Example Sentences for intermediate host

Word History

First Known Use

1878, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of intermediate host was in 1878

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Intermediate host.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/intermediate%20host. Accessed 11 Jul. 2025.

Kids Definition

intermediate host

noun
: a host that is normally used by a parasite in the course of its life cycle and that may actively carry it from one living thing to another

Medical Definition

intermediate host

noun
1
: a host which is normally used by a parasite in the course of its life cycle and in which it may multiply asexually but not sexually compare definitive host
2

More from Merriam-Webster on intermediate host

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

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