Microbes: meaning, definitions and examples

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microbes

[ ˈmaɪkrəʊbz ]

^{Context #1}

bacteria and other microorganisms

Microbes are tiny living organisms that can only be seen under a microscope. They include bacteria, viruses, fungi, and protozoa. Microbes play a crucial role in various ecological processes, such as nutrient cycling and decomposition.

Synonyms

bacteria, germs, microorganisms

Examples of usage

Antibiotics are used to treat infections caused by harmful microbes.
Microbes in the soil help break down organic matter into nutrients for plants.
The human body contains trillions of microbes that are essential for digestion and immune function.

^{Context #2}

informal term for microorganisms

Microbes is a colloquial term used to refer to microorganisms, especially those that are too small to be seen with the naked eye. It is often used in a casual or non-scientific context.

Synonyms

bugs, germs, microorganisms

Examples of usage

The bathroom cleaner claims to kill 99.9% of microbes on surfaces.
Yogurt contains live cultures of beneficial microbes.
Research is ongoing to understand how microbes impact human health.

Translations

Translations of the word "microbes" in other languages:

🇵🇹 micróbios

🇮🇳 सूक्ष्मजीव

🇩🇪 Mikroben

🇮🇩 mikroba

🇺🇦 мікроби

🇵🇱 mikroby

🇯🇵 微生物 (びせいぶつ)

🇫🇷 microbes

🇪🇸 microbios

🇹🇷 mikroplar

🇰🇷 미생물 (미생물)

🇸🇦 ميكروبات

🇨🇿 mikroby

🇸🇰 mikroorganizmy

🇨🇳 微生物 (wēishēngwù)

🇸🇮 mikrobi

🇮🇸 örverur

🇰🇿 микробтар

🇬🇪 მიკრობები

🇦🇿 mikroblar

🇲🇽 microbios

Word origin

The term 'microbes' is derived from the combination of the Greek words 'micros,' meaning small, and 'bios,' meaning life. The study of microbes, known as microbiology, has significantly advanced our understanding of the microbial world and its impact on various aspects of life.