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Bacterium Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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bacterium

[bรฆkหˆtษชษ™riษ™m ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

microscopic organism

A bacterium is a single-celled microorganism that can be found almost everywhere, including soil, water, and inside the human body. Bacteria can be both beneficial and harmful to humans, playing a crucial role in processes such as digestion and decomposition.

Synonyms

germ, microbe, microorganism.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
bacterium

Use when referring specifically to a single bacterial cell. Common in scientific and medical contexts.

  • The bacterium causes a severe infection
  • Scientists discovered a new bacterium in the soil
microbe

Use when referring to any microscopic organism, including bacteria, fungi, and viruses. Common in both scientific and general contexts.

  • Microbes are found everywhere around us
  • The study of microbes includes bacteria, fungi, and viruses
germ

Use in everyday language when talking about disease-causing microorganisms in general, often with a negative connotation.

  • Wash your hands to avoid spreading germs
  • Germs can cause infections
microorganism

Use in scientific or formal contexts when referring to any microscopic organism. Can include bacteria, algae, protozoa, and fungi.

  • Microorganisms play a crucial role in the ecosystem
  • The water sample contained various microorganisms

Examples of usage

  • Bacterium are too small to be seen without a microscope.
  • Some bacterium can cause infections if they enter the body.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Historical Significance

  • In 1676, Antonie van Leeuwenhoek observed the first bacteria using a handmade microscope.
  • The germ theory of disease, established in the 19th century, identified bacteria as causes of many illnesses.

Science and Health

  • While some bacteria can cause diseases, many are essential for processes like digestion and nutrient cycling.
  • The human body has more bacterial cells than human cells, especially in the gut, indicating a symbiotic relationship.

Pop Culture

  • Bacteria are often portrayed in media as villains in horror films, depicting them as invisible threats.
  • Popular science educators like Bill Nye have emphasized the importance of bacteria in cleaning up oil spills and waste.

Technology

  • Bacteria are used in biotechnology for producing insulin, antibiotics, and even biofuels.
  • Synthetic biology is harnessing bacteria to create new materials, like bio-plastics, to reduce pollution.

Origin of 'bacterium'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Greek word 'bakterion', which means 'small rod', referring to their shape.
  • The suffix '-ium' is often used in science to indicate a structure or a collection of something.

The word 'bacterium' comes from the Greek word 'bakterion', meaning 'small rod' or 'staff'. The concept of bacteria as microscopic organisms was first proposed by Antonie van Leeuwenhoek in the 17th century, although the term 'bacterium' was not used until later. The study of bacteria, known as bacteriology, has significantly advanced our understanding of microbiology and its impact on various fields.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #15,924, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.