Definition

A type of bacteria that is spiral-shaped and can cause diseases like relapsing fever in humans and other animals.

Example

Borrelia is known to be transmitted by ticks and can lead to serious health issues.

Conversation

Did you hear about the disease caused by borrelia?

Yeah, I read something about it; it's pretty serious, right?

Exactly, it can lead to relapsing fever if not treated properly.

That's why it's important to be aware of it, especially if you're going hiking.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Borrelia → The name 'Borrelia' is derived from the name of the French bacteriologist Amédée Borrel, who first described the genus. The suffix '-ia' is commonly used in biological taxonomy to denote a genus or group. Therefore, 'Borrelia' refers to the genus of bacteria named after Borrel.

Memory Tip

Think of the name 'Borrelia' as honoring the scientist Borrel who studied these bacteria, and remember that '-ia' indicates a biological classification.

Visually Confused Words