Definition

A tiny spore produced by certain bacteria that can survive in harsh conditions and can develop into a new bacterium.

Example

The bacteria formed an endospore to protect itself from extreme heat and dryness.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of an endospore?

Yeah, I think it's some kind of spore that bacteria make, right?

Exactly! They use it to survive tough conditions.

That's pretty fascinating how nature works like that.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Endospore → It is formed from "endo-" (from Greek "endon", meaning within) and "spora" (from Greek "spora", meaning seed or to sow). The word "endospore" refers to a spore that develops within the cell, particularly in certain bacteria, allowing them to survive in harsh conditions.

Memory Tip

Think of something that is a 'seed' ('spora') that develops 'within' ('endo-') a cell, which helps you remember that an endospore is a spore formed inside a cell.

Visually Confused Words