Definition

A type of bacteria that are often found in the mouth and can sometimes cause infections. They are long and thin, and some can live without oxygen.

Example

Actinomyces are often found in the oral cavity and can lead to infections if they enter the bloodstream.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of actinomyces?

Yeah, I think they’re those bacteria that can cause infections, right?

Exactly! They usually live in our mouths, but can sometimes be harmful.

It's interesting how something so small can have such an impact on our health.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Actinomyces is formed from "actino-" (from Greek "aktinos", meaning ray) and "myces" (from Greek "mukēs", meaning fungus). The word refers to a type of fungus that has a ray-like structure.

Memory Tip

Imagine a fungus that has 'ray-like' features — 'actino-' means ray, and 'myces' means fungus, helping you remember that actinomyces refers to a ray-like fungus.

Visually Confused Words