Definition

A type of parasite that causes a disease called leishmaniasis, which affects the tissues of vertebrates.

Example

Leishmania is responsible for causing leishmaniasis in humans and animals.

Conversation

Have you heard about leishmania and how it affects people in tropical areas?

Yeah, I read that it's a type of parasite that can cause some serious health issues.

It's scary how something so small can have such a big impact.

Absolutely, awareness is key to preventing infections from leishmania.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Leishmania → The word is derived from the name of the Scottish physician William Boog Leishman, who discovered the parasite in 1903. The suffix '-ia' is often used in scientific nomenclature to denote a condition or disease. Therefore, 'leishmania' refers to the disease caused by the Leishmania parasite, named after its discoverer.

Memory Tip

Think of the name 'Leishman' to remember that 'leishmania' refers to the disease associated with the parasite discovered by him.

Visually Confused Words