How Do You Spell COCCOBACILLUS?

1. A coccobacillus is a type of bacterium that is characterized by its shape, which is intermediate between coccus (spherical) and bacillus (rod-shaped). The word "coccobacillus" is derived from the combination of "coccus" and "bacillus". It refers to bacterial cells that are oval or slightly elongated, resembling a short rod with rounded ends.

   Coccobacilli are typically small in size, usually ranging from 0.5 to 1.5 micrometers in length. Their width can vary, but it is usually less than their length. This gives them a shape resembling short rods or ovals when observed under a microscope.

   These bacteria can be found in various environments, ranging from soil and water to the human body. Some species of coccobacilli are part of the normal bacterial flora in the body, residing on mucous membranes or within the respiratory, gastrointestinal, or genitourinary tract. However, certain coccobacilli are known to cause diseases, including respiratory infections, urinary tract infections, and meningitis.

   Due to their unique shape and intermediate characteristics between cocci and bacilli, coccobacilli occupy a distinct position within bacterial taxonomy. They are often identified and classified using microbiological techniques such as Gram staining and biochemical tests.

   In summary, a coccobacillus is a type of bacterium that has an oval or slightly elongated shape, appearing as a short rod with rounded ends. It encompasses bacteria that can be both harmless inhabitants of the body or pathogens causing various infections and diseases.

2. A short thick bacillus, of the shape of an oval or slightly elongated coccus.

   A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.

Common Misspellings for COCCOBACILLUS

The word "coccobacillus" is derived from the combination of two Latin words: "coccus" and "bacillus".

The word "coccus" comes from the Greek word "kokkos", meaning "berry" or "seed". In microbiology, the term "coccus" refers to bacteria that have a spherical or round shape, resembling a berry.

The word "bacillus" also has its roots in Latin and is derived from the Greek word "bakterion", meaning "a small stick". In microbiology, "bacillus" is used to describe bacteria that have a rod-like shape.

Therefore, "coccobacillus" combines the characteristics of both coccus and bacillus, referring to bacteria that have a shape that is intermediate between a sphere and a rod.

Plural form of COCCOBACILLUS is COCCOBACILLI