a. Biol. [irreg. f. Gr. τροφή nourishment + L. legĕre to gather, to collect + -IC. (Perhaps suggested by L. frūgĭlĕgus fruit-gathering.)] Collecting nutriment.
1898. Nature, 3 Nov., 15/1. The trophilegic action of the fronds [of ferns], in connection with which certain arrangements have been observed, destined to facilitate the passage of water to the roots.
