bacillus
/bə'siləs/
Definition
- Noun:
- A type of rod-shaped bacterium: A bacillus is a specific category of bacterium characterized by its elongated, cylindrical, or rod-like shape. It is a scientific term used in microbiology.
- Aerobic, spore-forming bacterium: Bacilli are typically aerobic (requiring oxygen) and have the ability to produce endospores, which are tough, dormant structures that allow the bacterium to survive harsh conditions.
- Often found in soil: These bacteria are commonly found in soil environments but can also be present elsewhere.
Usage Examples
- Noun:
- The laboratory identified the pathogen as a dangerous bacillus. (The laboratory identified the pathogen as a dangerous rod-shaped bacterium.)
- Bacillus anthracis is the causative agent of anthrax. (Bacillus anthracis is the bacterium that causes anthrax.)
- Many bacilli are harmless and play a role in nutrient cycling in soil. (Many rod-shaped bacteria are harmless and contribute to nutrient recycling in soil.)
Advanced Usage
- "Bacillus" as a genus name: In formal taxonomy, (capitalized and italicized) refers to a specific genus within the family Bacillaceae. Not all rod-shaped bacteria (bacilli) belong to this genus.
- Bacillus subtilis is widely used in biotechnology. (The bacterium Bacillus subtilis is extensively used in biotechnology.)
Variants and Related Words
- Bacilli (n, plural): The standard plural form of bacillus.
- Several different bacilli were observed under the microscope.
- Bacillary (adj): Relating to or caused by bacilli.
- The patient was diagnosed with a bacillary infection.
Synonyms
- Rod-shaped bacterium: A descriptive synonym emphasizing the shape.
- Bacterium: A general term; "bacillus" is a more specific type.
Notes on Meaning
- The term "bacillus" has two primary levels of meaning:
- Lowercase ("a bacillus"): A general morphological description for any rod-shaped bacterium.
- Capitalized and italicized ("Bacillus"): Refers specifically to the genus within the bacterial domain.
- It is distinct from other bacterial shapes like coccus (spherical) or spirillum (spiral).
Noun
-
aerobic rod-shaped spore-producing bacterium; often occurring in chainlike formations; found primarily in soil
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