epiphyte Meaning, Definition & Usage

  1. noun plant that derives moisture and nutrients from the air and rain; usually grows on another plant but not parasitic on it
    aerophyte; epiphytic plant; air plant.

WordNet


Ep"i*phyte noun
Etymology
Gr. upon + plant, to grow: cf. F. épiphyte.
Definitions
  1. (Bot.) An air plant which grows on other plants, but does not derive its nourishment from them. See Air plant.
  2. (Med.) A vegetable parasite growing on the surface of the body.

Webster 1913