Definition: The word "amphophilic" refers to something that thrives in water, often in a salt-water environment. This term typically implies a high concentration of dissolved salts or nutrients. Definition: Amphophilic refers to a substance that grows well in a medium rich in salts or minerals, as exemplified by the plant growth habit of "amphiphilous," meaning it responds equally well to both soil and water (saltwater). In other words, this type of organism is capable of thriving with high concentrations of salt.