Bacterium is a word that is frequently used in the field of microbiology. It is a term that refers to a single-celled organism that is classified as a prokaryote. Bacteria are known for their ability to survive in a wide range of environments and can be found in soil, water, and even inside the human body. In this article, we will explore the definition and meaning of bacterium.
Definitions
A bacterium is a type of microorganism that is typically a few micrometers in length and can be found in a variety of environments. It is a single-celled organism that lacks a nucleus and other membrane-bound organelles. Bacteria are classified into different groups based on their shape, size, and structure. They can be spherical, rod-shaped, or spiral-shaped.
Origin
The word bacterium has its origins in the Greek language. The word “bakterion” means a small staff or rod. The term was first used in the late 19th century to describe a group of microorganisms that were distinct from other types of organisms such as fungi and algae.
Meaning in different dictionaries
The meaning of bacterium is consistent across different dictionaries. It is defined as a single-celled microorganism that lacks a nucleus and other membrane-bound organelles. Bacteria are typically classified based on their shape, size, and structure.
Associations
Bacteria are associated with a wide range of environments and can be found in soil, water, and even inside the human body. They are known for their ability to survive in harsh conditions and can play both beneficial and harmful roles in different ecosystems.
Synonyms
Some synonyms for bacterium include microbe, germ, and microorganism.
Antonyms
There are no direct antonyms for bacterium, as it is a specific term that refers to a type of microorganism.
The same root words
The root word of bacterium is “bakterion,” which means a small staff or rod. Other words that share this root word include bacteriology, bactericide, and bacteriostatic.
Example Sentences
- The bacterium was identified as the cause of the outbreak.
- The lab technician examined the bacterium under a microscope.
- Bacteria play an important role in the decomposition of organic matter.
- The antibiotic was effective in killing the harmful bacterium.
- The student studied bacteriology to learn more about microorganisms.