Finesentence mobile logo
Sign in Login / Register

Microbial Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

🦠
Add to dictionary

microbial

[maɪˈkrɔɪbəl ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adjective

biological science

Relating to or characteristic of microorganisms, which are microscopic organisms such as bacteria, fungi, viruses, and protozoa. Microbial processes play a crucial role in ecosystems and human health.

Synonyms

bacterial, fungal, microscopic.

Examples of usage

  • Microbial growth can lead to food spoilage.
  • The study of microbial diversity is essential for understanding ecosystems.
  • Antibiotics target specific microbial infections.

Translations

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

Origin of 'microbial'

The term 'microbial' stems from the word 'microbe,' which was first coined in the late 19th century derived from the Greek 'mikros' meaning 'small' and 'bios' meaning 'life.' As scientific understanding of microorganisms advanced, particularly after the development of the microscope, the relevance of these tiny organisms in various fields such as medicine, ecology, and food science became apparent. The adjective 'microbial' is used to describe any processes, characteristics, or phenomena that involve these microorganisms. With the rise of microbiology as a distinct scientific discipline in the 20th century, the term gained even more prominence, particularly in the context of understanding diseases, fermentation, and other biological processes.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranked #10,475, this word falls into high-advanced vocabulary. It appears less frequently but is valuable for expressing precise meanings in specific contexts.