Penicillin Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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penicillin
[ˌpɛnɪˈsɪlɪn ]
Definition
medicine usage
Penicillin is a group of antibiotics that are used to treat various infections caused by bacteria. It works by interfering with the ability of bacteria to form cell walls, which ultimately leads to their death. First discovered in 1928 by Alexander Fleming, penicillin has since become one of the most widely used antibiotics in medical history. Its effectiveness has made it a standard treatment for many bacterial infections, including pneumonia, strep throat, and syphilis.
Synonyms
antibiotic, antimicrobial, bactericide.
Examples of usage
- The doctor prescribed penicillin for the infection.
- Penicillin was the first true antibiotic discovered.
- Many people are allergic to penicillin.
- The discovery of penicillin revolutionized medicine.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Historical Significance
- During World War II, penicillin was mass-produced and saved countless lives by treating injuries and infections.
- It is often credited with marking the beginning of modern antibiotics, revolutionizing medicine.
Pop Culture
- Penicillin's discovery has inspired books and documentaries that explore its impact on health and society.
- Numerous films depict the heroism of doctors using this medicine during crisis situations, showcasing its importance.
Science
- This medicine works by preventing bacteria from forming their protective cell walls, effectively killing them.
- It’s specifically effective against Gram-positive bacteria, like those that cause strep throat.
Psychology
- The emergence of penicillin changed the public perception of health, instilling a sense of hope that many infections could be cured.
- It helped reduce the fear associated with bacterial infections, leading to more proactive health measures.
Origin of 'penicillin'
Main points about word origin
- The name comes from the mold Penicillium, from which the drug is made.
- It was first discovered by Alexander Fleming in 1928 when he noticed that a blue-green mold killed bacteria.
The term 'penicillin' originates from the Latin word 'penicillium,' referring to the mold used in its extraction. This mold, specifically 'Penicillium chrysogenum,' was first identified in Alexander Fleming's laboratory in 1928. He observed that the mold produced a substance that inhibited the growth of bacteria, leading to the development of penicillin as an antibiotic. The mass production of penicillin occurred during World War II, where it played a crucial role in treating infections among wounded soldiers, greatly reducing the mortality rate from bacterial infections. The historical significance of penicillin in medicine cannot be overstated, as it marked the beginning of the antibiotic era, changing the outcome of numerous infectious diseases that were previously deadly.