# coli

/ˈkoʊɫi/ (US) · CEFR C2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/coli
Updated: 2026-05-07

## Definition

a specific type of bacteria often found in the intestines of humans and animals. While most types are harmless, some can cause serious food poisoning.

For teachers: a species of Gram-negative, facultatively anaerobic bacteria commonly inhabiting the lower intestine of warm-blooded organisms. Usually appears as part of the binomial 'Escherichia coli'.

## Examples

- The water was tested for coli bacteria to ensure it was safe.
- Health officials traced the recent outbreak of food poisoning back to a specific batch of lettuce contaminated with E. coli.
- While most strains of E. coli are commensal and pose no threat to the host, certain serotypes can cause severe enteric illness through the production of Shiga toxins.

## Usage notes

- Almost exclusively used as the second part of the scientific name 'Escherichia coli' or its abbreviation 'E. coli'.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.