1
: very different, strange, or unusual
exotic colors/flavors
an exotic locale
She's known for her exotic tastes.
2
of a plant or animal
: not living or growing naturally in a particular area : from another part of the world
exotic plants
exotic fish/birds
plural exotics
: a plant or animal that does not live or grow naturally in a particular area
Some native species are being crowded out by exotics.
Cite this Entry
“Exotic.” Merriam-Webster.com Simple Definition, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/simple/exotic. Accessed 16 Apr. 2026.
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