Finesentence mobile logo
Sign in Login / Register

Microbiology: meaning, definitions and examples

🦠
Add to dictionary

microbiology

 

[maɪkroʊˈbaɪəˌlɑːdʒi ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

scientific study

Microbiology is the branch of science that deals with the study of microorganisms, which are typically too small to be seen with the naked eye. This field encompasses various sub-disciplines, including bacteriology, virology, mycology, and protozoology. Microbiologists study the structure, function, genetics, and interactions of these organisms both with each other and with their environments. The insights gained from microbiology have applications in medicine, agriculture, and biotechnology.

Synonyms

bacteriology, mycology, virology.

Examples of usage

  • The microbiology lab conducts experiments on bacteria.
  • Understanding microbiology is crucial for developing new antibiotics.
  • Microbiology plays a key role in food safety.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The term comes from the Greek words 'micros' meaning 'small' and 'bios' meaning 'life'.
  • Microbiology as a formal study started in the 17th century when microscopes were invented.

Historical Origins

  • The first bacterium, 'Bacillus anthracis', was discovered by Robert Koch in the late 19th century, leading to the foundations of germ theory.
  • Louis Pasteur's work in the 1800s established the importance of microorganisms in fermentation and disease, revolutionizing medicine.

Health and Medicine

  • Microorganisms play critical roles in digestion; for instance, gut bacteria help break down food.
  • Antibiotics are medicines derived from molds and bacteria that help fight infections caused by harmful microorganisms.

Environmental Impact

  • Certain bacteria are used in bioremediation to clean up oil spills by breaking down pollutants.
  • Microorganisms are crucial in composting, helping decompose organic matter into nutrient-rich soil.
  • Some types of algae, classified as microorganisms, produce a significant amount of the Earth's oxygen.

Technology and Innovation

  • Microbial fuel cells harness the energy produced by bacteria to generate electricity, showcasing biotechnology's potential.
  • Genetic engineering often involves microorganisms, allowing scientists to produce insulin and other important drugs more efficiently.

Translations

Translations of the word "microbiology" in other languages:

🇵🇹 microbiologia

🇮🇳 सूक्ष्मजीव विज्ञान

🇩🇪 Mikrobiologie

🇮🇩 mikrobiologi

🇺🇦 мікробіологія

🇵🇱 mikrobiologia

🇯🇵 微生物学

🇫🇷 microbiologie

🇪🇸 microbiología

🇹🇷 mikrobiyoloji

🇰🇷 미생물학

🇸🇦 علم الأحياء الدقيقة

🇨🇿 mikrobiologie

🇸🇰 mikrobiológia

🇨🇳 微生物学

🇸🇮 mikrobiologija

🇮🇸 örverufræði

🇰🇿 микробиология

🇬🇪 მიკრობიოლოგია

🇦🇿 mikrobiologiya

🇲🇽 microbiología

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #19,345, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.