© 2026 Sloth Lingo. Learn easy. Lounge wisely.

lysogenize

Upper-Intermediate (B2)

IPA: /lɪˈzoʊdʒəˌnaɪz/

KK: /lɪˈzoʊdʒəˌnaɪz/

transitive verb
Definition

To cause a virus to integrate its genetic material into the DNA of a host cell, allowing it to replicate along with the host's DNA.


Example

The scientist aimed to lysogenize the bacterium to study its genetic properties.


Tense Forms

Past: lysogenized

Past Participle: lysogenized


Conversation
Sloth A
Have you ever heard of the process to lysogenize bacteria?
Sloth B
No, I haven't. What does it involve?
Sloth A
It's when a virus integrates its DNA into the bacterial genome.
Sloth B
That sounds pretty interesting! I didn't know viruses could do that.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
infect
integrate
embed
Antonyms
lyse
destroy
release
Root Explanation

Lysogenize → It is formed from "lyso-" (from Greek "lysis", meaning to loosen or dissolve) and "-genize" (from Greek "genes", meaning to produce or generate). The word describes the process of producing a lysogen, where a bacteriophage integrates its genetic material into the host's genome, leading to a state of lysogeny.

Memory Tip

Think of 'lyso-' meaning to 'loosen' or 'dissolve' and '-genize' meaning to 'produce'. This helps you remember that lysogenize refers to the process of producing a state where viral genetic material is integrated into a host.

Visually Confused Words
glycogenize
Is this page helpful?