Definition

1. Noun:
   • Rod-shaped Gram-negative bacteria; most occur normally or pathogenically in intestines of humans and other animals: "Enteric bacteria" refers to a group of bacteria characterized by their rod shape and a specific cell wall structure (Gram-negative). They are primarily found, either as part of the normal flora or as disease-causing agents, within the intestinal tracts of humans and various animals.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The laboratory test confirmed the presence of enteric bacteria in the water sample.
  • Some enteric bacteria, like E. coli, are essential for digestion, while others can cause serious illnesses.

Advanced Usage

• Scientific/Medical Context: The term is used precisely in microbiology and medicine to categorize and discuss bacteria inhabiting the intestines.
  • The study focused on antibiotic resistance patterns among various enteric bacteria.

Variants and Related Words

• Enteric (adj): Pertaining to the intestines.
  • Enteric diseases are often spread through contaminated food or water.
• Enterobacterium (n, singular): A bacterium belonging to the family Enterobacteriaceae, which includes many enteric bacteria.
  • Salmonella is a well-known enterobacterium.

Synonyms

• Gut bacteria: A more general, informal term for bacteria living in the intestines.
• Intestinal flora: Refers to the community of microorganisms, including bacteria, in the intestines.

Notes on Meaning

• The term specifically denotes bacteria based on their shape (rod), Gram-stain result (negative), and ecological niche (intestines). It is a taxonomic and descriptive term, not a diagnosis. While some are pathogens (e.g., ), many are harmless or beneficial residents of the gut.

Noun

1. rod-shaped Gram-negative bacteria; most occur normally or pathogenically in intestines of humans and other animals