What is the definition of a paratenic host and how does it relate to the transmission of parasites?

A paratenic host is an organism that can harbor a parasite without the parasite undergoing any development or multiplication. The parasite remains in a dormant state until the paratenic host is consumed by the definitive host, where the parasite can then continue its life cycle. This allows the parasite to be transmitted to the definitive host through the paratenic host.