Bacilli are a type of bacteria that are rod-shaped and have the ability to form spores. They are found in various environments, including soil, water, and the human body. In this article, we will explore the definition and meaning of bacilli, as well as their origins, associations, synonyms, and antonyms.
Definitions
Bacilli are a type of bacteria that are characterized by their rod-like shape. They are usually found in clusters or chains and can be either aerobic or anaerobic. Bacilli are known for their ability to form spores, which allows them to survive in harsh environmental conditions.
Origin
The word “bacilli” comes from the Latin word “bacillus,” which means “little rod.” The term was first used in the 19th century by German microbiologist Ferdinand Cohn to describe a group of rod-shaped bacteria.
Meaning in different dictionaries
According to the Merriam-Webster dictionary, bacilli are “a rod-shaped bacterium.” The Cambridge Dictionary defines bacilli as “rod-shaped bacteria that can cause disease.”
Associations
Bacilli are associated with a wide range of diseases, including anthrax, tetanus, and tuberculosis. They are also commonly found in soil and water, where they play an important role in the decomposition of organic matter.
Synonyms
Synonyms of bacilli include rod-shaped bacteria, bacillus, and rod-shaped microbes.
Antonyms
Antonyms of bacilli include cocci (spherical-shaped bacteria) and spirilla (spiral-shaped bacteria).
The same root words
The word “bacillus” is the singular form of bacilli. Other words that share the same root include bacilliform (resembling a bacillus) and bacillemia (the presence of bacilli in the bloodstream).
Example Sentences
- The lab results showed the presence of bacilli in the patient’s sputum sample.
- Bacilli are commonly found in soil and water.
- The anthrax bacteria are a type of bacillus.
- The microbiologist observed rod-shaped bacilli under the microscope.
- The spores produced by bacilli allow them to survive in harsh environmental conditions.