Bacillus

/bəˈsɪləs/

noun

A type of bacteria that is shaped like a rod.

The doctor discovered that the infection was caused by a bacillus.

Technical

Definition 1 of 2

Pro Tip 1/3

Primarily used in a clinical setting to describe specific rod-shaped bacteria causing illnesses.

This bacillus is resistant to conventional antibiotics.

Pro Tip 2/3

Understanding that 'bacillus' refers to the rod shape can help distinguish it from other bacteria forms like 'coccus' (spherical).

Under the microscope, the bacillus stood out from the spherical bacteria.

Pro Tip 3/3

Remember, not all bacillus bacteria cause disease; some can be neutral or beneficial to humans.

Bacillus subtilis is used in making antibiotics.

microorganism

Humans forget easily. That's why you should download WordUp: Smart reminders, word games, AI practice, and much more!

As you browse the web instantly look up words you don’t know.