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Coccus Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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coccus

[ˈkɒkəs ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

bacterial shape

Coccus refers to a type of bacterium that is spherical or oval in shape. These bacteria can exist as single cells, in pairs (diplococci), in chains (streptococci), or in clusters (staphylococci). They play various roles in human health and disease.

Synonyms

bacterium, microbe, prokaryote.

Examples of usage

  • Streptococcus pneumoniae is a pathogenic coccus.
  • Cocci can be found in various environments, including soil and water.
  • Under a microscope, coccus-shaped bacteria are easily recognizable.
  • Some cocci are beneficial and part of the normal flora.

Translations

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Origin of 'coccus'

The word 'coccus' comes from the Greek word 'kokkos', meaning 'berry' or 'grain'. This reflects the shape of these bacteria, which resembles that of small berries. The term has been used in microbiology since the late 19th century as scientists began to classify bacteria based on their shapes and arrangements. It is an essential part of the nomenclature used in microbiology and helps in understanding the characteristics and behaviors of different bacterial species. As microbiology progressed, the classification of bacteria expanded beyond just cocci to include bacilli (rod-shaped) and spirilla (spiral-shaped), each with their importance in the study of infectious diseases and their treatment.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #33,050 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.