Bacilli: meaning, definitions and examples

Etymology

• The word comes from the Latin 'bacillus,' which means 'little rod.' This refers to its shape.
• It was first used in the 19th century as scientists started classifying different types of bacteria.

Health and Medicine

• Bacilli are responsible for various infectious diseases, such as tuberculosis and anthrax.
• Some species, like Lactobacillus, are beneficial and used in making yogurt and other fermented foods.

Science and Discovery

• Robert Koch discovered the bacilli that cause tuberculosis in 1882, a significant moment in microbiology.
• The microscopic study of bacilli led to advancements in both medicine and bacteriology.

Cultural References

• In popular media, 'bacilli' are often depicted as villainous germs in cartoons and educational videos to emphasize hygiene.
• The word is sometimes used in literature to illustrate themes of decay or infections in metaphoric contexts.

Environmental Impact

• Bacilli play crucial roles in soil health, aiding in nutrient cycling and the decomposition of organic matter.
• Some bacilli are used in bioremediation, helping to clean up contaminated environments by breaking down pollutants.

Ranked #10,547, this word falls into high-advanced vocabulary. It appears less frequently but is valuable for expressing precise meanings in specific contexts.

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