Definition

Noun: 1. A genus of bacteria: Salmonella refers to a genus of rod-shaped, Gram-negative bacteria belonging to the family Enterobacteriaceae. 2. The bacteria causing illness: More commonly, it refers to the bacteria themselves, which are a major cause of foodborne illnesses, including typhoid fever and salmonellosis (a type of food poisoning).

Usage and Examples

• The presence of salmonella in the food supply triggered a nationwide recall.
• Public health officials are investigating an outbreak of salmonella linked to contaminated produce.
• Proper cooking kills salmonella bacteria.

Advanced Usage

• Scientific Classification: In formal scientific contexts, is capitalized and italicized when referring to the genus name (e.g., Typhi, Enteritidis).
• As a non-count noun: It is often used as a non-count (uncountable) noun when referring to the bacteria generally as a cause of disease (e.g., "test for salmonella," "risk of salmonella").

Variants and Related Words

• Salmonellosis (noun): The infection or disease caused by salmonella bacteria, characterized by diarrhea, fever, and abdominal cramps.

Synonyms

• Pathogen (a broader term for any disease-causing organism)
• Enterobacteria (a broader term for bacteria inhabiting the intestines)

Notes on Meaning

The word "salmonella" is used primarily in two related ways: 1. To identify the specific genus of bacteria. 2. To refer generally to the bacteria as a source of infection and foodborne illness. The context usually makes the specific meaning clear.

Noun

1. rod-shaped Gram-negative enterobacteria; cause typhoid fever and food poisoning; can be used as a bioweapon