The relation between two different species of organisms that are interdependent

• Each gains benefits from the other

Wiktionary Word definitions in Wiktionary
n. (context ecology English) any interaction between two species that benefits both; typically involves the exchange of substances or services

The Collaborative International Dictionary Word definitions in The Collaborative International Dictionary
Mutualism \Mu"tu*al*ism\, n. (Ethics) The doctrine of mutual dependence as the condition of individual and social welfare. --F. Harrison. --H. Spencer. --Mallock.

Wikipedia Word definitions in Wikipedia
Mutualism (also known as the mutualist movement or movement of mutuals ) is a social movement that aims at creating and promoting mutual organizations , mutual insurances , and mutual funds . The movement encourages and assists the provision of mutual benefits ...

Douglas Harper's Etymology Dictionary Word definitions in Douglas Harper's Etymology Dictionary
1849, in reference to the doctrine of French anarchist/socialist Pierre-Joseph Proudhon (1809-1865), from French mutuellisme . In biology, from 1876, from mutual + -ism .

WordNet Word definitions in WordNet
n. the relation between two different species of organisms that are interdependent; each gains benefits from the other [syn: symbiosis ]