# poikilotherm

**Pronunciation:** /pɔɪˈkɪləθɜːm/ · poy-KIL-uh-thurm

**CEFR level:** C1

**Part of speech:** noun

## Meaning

An animal that has a body temperature that varies with the surrounding environment, as opposed to a homeotherm (warm-blooded animal).

## Examples

- Reptiles, amphibians, and fish are common examples of poikilotherms.
- The frog's ability to survive in cold water is a testament to its poikilotherm nature.
- Unlike mammals, poikilotherms cannot internally regulate their body temperature.

## Synonyms

- cold-blooded — Common but less scientifically precise term.
- ectotherm — Synonym, emphasizing external heat source.
- heterotherm — Broader term including animals with variable internal temps.

## Antonyms

- homeotherm — Animal with a stable internal body temperature.
- warm-blooded — Common but less scientifically precise term.

Canonical URL: https://anaversity.com/dictionary/english/poikilotherm

[Browse the English learner dictionary](https://anaversity.com/dictionary/english)