Definition. noun, plural: heterotrophs. An organism that is unable to synthesize its own organic carbon-based compounds from inorganic sources, hence, feeds on organic matter produced by, or available in, other organisms.Supplement. Heterotrophs are the consumers in the food chain, particularly the herbivores, carnivores and omnivores.f it obtains nitrogen from organic compounds but not energy, it is still considered an autotroph (such as carnivorous plants). Organisms that obtain carbon from organic compounds may either be: photoheterotrophs or chemoheterotrophs. Word origin: G. heteros: héteros the other of, two, other + Different. g: trophos. feeder