Word
bacteria
Phoneticsbac·te·ria
US/bækˈtɪɹiə/
UK/bæktˈiəɹɪɐ/
Definitions
01microorganisms
n. tiny living things that can only be seen with a microscope.
n. microscopic single-celled organisms that exist in diverse environments. Technically the plural of 'bacterium', though frequently used as a collective noun in non-scientific contexts.
“You should wash your hands to get rid of any harmful bacteria.”
“The researchers identified several strains of bacteria in the soil that were capable of breaking down plastic waste.”
Usage
Usually plural; takes a plural verb in formal and academic writing.
Pitfall
This bacteria is very dangerous.
These bacteria are very dangerous.
In formal and scientific writing, 'bacteria' is plural. Use 'bacterium' for a single organism.
02a lowlife person
n. a very rude or unpleasant person who is treated with no respect.
n. a derogatory term for a person or group of people perceived as socially or morally inferior.
“He treated the waiters like they were just bacteria.”
“The corrupt official looked down on the protesters as if they were mere bacteria infecting his city.”
Slang · Vulgar
Teaching tip
This is a highly offensive and dehumanising insult; learners should recognise it but avoid using it.
Real-World Examples
“On Earth, any life form more advanced than bacteria requires liquid water to survive.” “Some people can carry bacteria in their nose or throat without getting sick, but can spread it to others.” “The AI models were trained on genetic codes from viruses, bacteria, plants and people.” Etymology
Borrowed from New Latin bacteria, plural of bactērium, from Ancient Greek βακτήριον (baktḗrion, “little rod”).
From New Latin bactēria, from Ancient Greek βακτηρίᾱ (baktēríā, “rod, stick”).
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.