bacteroid
Upper-Intermediate (B2)
IPA: //bækˈtɛrɔɪd//
KK: /bækˈtɛrɔɪd/
adjective
Definition
Having a shape or appearance similar to that of bacteria.
Example
The scientist observed bacteroid structures under the microscope.
Conversation
Have you seen that documentary about microorganisms?
Yeah, it was fascinating how some of them are bacteroid in nature.
I never knew they could resemble bacteria so closely!
Right? It makes you appreciate the complexity of life.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
bacterial
microbial
germlike
Antonyms
nonbacterial
sterile
clean
noun
Definition
A type of bacteria that has a unique shape and is often found in the root nodules of certain plants, helping them to fix nitrogen from the air.
Example
Bacteroids play a crucial role in the nitrogen-fixing process of leguminous plants.
Conversation
Did you know that some plants have bacteroid bacteria in their roots?
Really? I had no idea plants could do that!
Yeah, it's fascinating how they help with nitrogen fixation.
Root Explanation
Bacteroid → It is formed from "bacterium" (from Greek "bakterion", meaning rod) and "-oid" (meaning resembling or like). The word "bacteroid" refers to something that resembles a rod-shaped bacterium.
Memory Tip
Think of 'bacterium' meaning a rod-shaped organism, and '-oid' indicating resemblance — so a bacteroid is something that looks like a rod-shaped bacterium.
Visually Confused Words
mactroid
icteroid
asteroid
apteroid
batoid