Cold-blooded

Pronunciation
/kohld-BLUH-did/
Category
Physiology
Singular
Cold-blooded organism
Plural
Cold-blooded organisms

Definition

Describing an organism that cannot regulate its body temperature internally and relies on external environmental conditions.

Etymology

From Middle English 'cold' meaning 'of low temperature' and 'blooded' referencing the state of blood.

Example

Insects are cold-blooded and often seen basking in the sun to increase their body temperature.

Synonyms

Related Terms

Usage Notes

Cold-blooded animals' activity levels are heavily influenced by temperature; they become sluggish in cooler conditions.