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Pathogens: meaning, definitions and examples

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pathogens

 

[ ˈpæθ.ə.dʒənz ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

microorganisms

Pathogens are microorganisms that can cause diseases in plants, animals, and humans. They include bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites.

Synonyms

bugs, germs, microbes

Examples of usage

  • Pathogens such as E. coli and Salmonella can contaminate food and cause food poisoning.
  • The flu virus is a common pathogen that can spread easily from person to person.
  • Preventing the spread of pathogens is crucial in maintaining public health.
Context #2 | Noun

healthcare

In the context of healthcare, pathogens are often studied and researched to understand how diseases spread and how to develop treatments and vaccines.

Synonyms

disease-causing agents, infectious agents

Examples of usage

  • Researchers are constantly studying new pathogens to stay ahead of potential outbreaks.
  • Understanding the behavior of pathogens is essential in controlling infectious diseases.
Context #3 | Noun

environment

Pathogens can also impact the environment by affecting ecosystems and wildlife populations.

Synonyms

ecological hazards, microbial threats

Examples of usage

  • Pathogens introduced through contaminated water sources can harm aquatic life.
  • Wildlife conservation efforts often consider the impact of pathogens on endangered species.

Translations

Translations of the word "pathogens" in other languages:

🇵🇹 patógenos

🇮🇳 रोगजनक

🇩🇪 Pathogene

🇮🇩 patogen

🇺🇦 патогени

🇵🇱 patogeny

🇯🇵 病原体

🇫🇷 agents pathogènes

🇪🇸 patógenos

🇹🇷 patojenler

🇰🇷 병원체

🇸🇦 مُمْرِضات

🇨🇿 patogeny

🇸🇰 patogény

🇨🇳 病原体

🇸🇮 patogeni

🇮🇸 sýklar

🇰🇿 патогендер

🇬🇪 პათოგენები

🇦🇿 patogenlər

🇲🇽 patógenos

Word origin

The term "pathogen" originates from the Greek words "pathos" meaning "suffering" and "gen" meaning "producer". It was first used in the late 19th century to describe disease-causing microorganisms. Over time, the study of pathogens has significantly contributed to the understanding and treatment of infectious diseases.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranked #11,798, this word falls into high-advanced vocabulary. It appears less frequently but is valuable for expressing precise meanings in specific contexts.