English Lexicon

Invasive Species

/ɪnˈveɪ.sɪv ˈspiː.ʃiːz/
nounCEFR B2 (Upper)Top #1500 frequency
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Comprehensive Definitions & Senses

2 senses
As noun
  1. 1

    A species that is non-native to a specific location and whose introduction causes or is likely to cause economic or environmental harm.

    "The introduction of the zebra mussel is a classic example of an invasive species that disrupts local ecosystems."
  2. 2

    A plant or animal that spreads rapidly and can outcompete native species for resources.

    "Kudzu is often referred to as an invasive species due to its rapid growth and ability to choke out native plants."

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Antonyms & Contrasting Words (1)

Linguistic Origin & Historical Etymology

The term 'invasive' originates from the Latin 'invasivus', meaning 'to invade', which evolved in the 20th century to describe species that spread aggressively in non-native environments. 'Species' comes from Latin 'species', meaning 'appearance' or 'form', used in biological classification since the 18th century.

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