bacterium Definition
a single-celled microorganism that can cause disease or is involved in the process of decay.
Using bacterium: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "bacterium" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
The bacterium E. coli can cause food poisoning.
Example
Some types of bacterium are used to make cheese and yogurt.
Example
Antibiotics are used to kill harmful bacteria in the body.
bacterium Synonyms and Antonyms
Phrases with bacterium
beneficial bacteria that live in the body and help with digestion and other bodily functions
Example
Eating yogurt can help increase the amount of good bacteria in your gut.
bacteria that can cause disease in humans or animals
Example
Pathogenic bacteria can be spread through contaminated food or water.
gram-negative bacteria
a type of bacteria that has a thin cell wall and is more resistant to antibiotics
Example
Gram-negative bacteria can cause serious infections in hospitals.
Summary: bacterium in Brief
'Bacterium' [bak-teer-ee-uhm] refers to a single-celled microorganism that can cause disease or is involved in the process of decay. It can be both harmful and beneficial, as seen in 'Some types of bacterium are used to make cheese and yogurt.' Antibiotics are used to kill harmful bacteria in the body.