Definition

A term used to describe a substance that prevents the growth and reproduction of fungi without killing them.

Example

The doctor prescribed a fungistatic medication to treat the fungal infection.

Conversation

I just read about this fungistatic substance used in agriculture.

Really? What does it do exactly?

It inhibits the growth of fungi without harming the plants.

That sounds useful! I wonder if it’s safe for all crops.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Fungistatic → It is formed from "fungi" (from Latin *fungus*, meaning mushroom or fungus) and "static" (from Greek *statikos*, meaning causing to stand or stable). The word describes something that inhibits the growth of fungi, thus causing them to remain stable or inactive.

Memory Tip

Think of 'fungi' as mushrooms that are being kept 'stable' or inactive by something — that's what fungistatic means.

Visually Confused Words