Microorganisms Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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microorganisms
[หmaษช.kroสหษหr.ษกษ.nษชz.ษmz ]
Definition
study of
Microorganisms are tiny living creatures that are invisible to the naked eye. They include bacteria, viruses, fungi, and protozoa. Microorganisms play a crucial role in various ecological processes and can be both beneficial and harmful to humans.
Synonyms
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| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| microorganisms |
Used in scientific, medical, or technical contexts to refer to tiny living things that can be bacteria, viruses, or fungi.
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| germs |
Commonly used in everyday language to refer to harmful microorganisms that cause disease. Often used when discussing hygiene and health, especially with children.
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| microbes |
Often used in scientific or academic settings to refer to microscopic organisms, including bacteria, viruses, and fungi.
|
| bugs |
Used informally in everyday conversation, often to refer to small insects or sometimes microbes that cause illness.
|
Examples of usage
- Microorganisms are studied in the field of microbiology.
- Microorganisms are responsible for decomposition of organic matter.
- Microorganisms can cause diseases in humans.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Science
- These organisms play crucial roles in ecosystems, such as decomposing organic matter and recycling nutrients in the soil.
- Some microorganisms are essential for human health, residing in our gut and helping us digest food.
- Bioremediation utilizes certain microorganisms to clean up pollutants and toxins from the environment.
Health
- Pathogenic microorganisms can cause diseases like flu and food poisoning, leading to the importance of hygiene and vaccinations.
- Probiotics, beneficial microorganisms, are often used in foods and supplements to promote digestive health.
- Antibiotics are designed to target harmful bacteria, revolutionizing medicine by effectively treating bacterial infections.
Technology
- Genetic engineering often involves microorganisms to produce insulin and other important biological substances.
- Microorganisms are used in biofuels, turning organic materials into energy through fermentation processes.
- Advancements in microbiome research are paving the way for personalized medicine based on an individual's microbial composition.
Culture
- Fermentation, which relies on microorganisms, has been used for centuries in food preservation and flavor enhancement.
- The production of cheese, yogurt, and bread heavily depends on specific microorganisms that give each food its unique taste and texture.
- Traditional alcoholic beverages like beer and wine are created through the fermentation process, highlighting the cultural importance of these tiny creatures.
Origin of 'microorganisms'
Main points about word origin
- The word combines 'micro', meaning small, from Greek, and 'organism', which refers to a living thing, originating from the Latin 'organismus'.
- First used in the 19th century, the term helped scientists identify and classify these small creatures as distinct from larger ones.
- Microorganisms are a diverse group that includes bacteria, viruses, fungi, and protozoa.
The study of microorganisms dates back to the late 17th century when Antonie van Leeuwenhoek first observed bacteria through a microscope. Since then, the field of microbiology has advanced significantly, leading to a better understanding of the role of microorganisms in various processes.