Definition

A type of bacteria that can cause a serious infection in the brain and spinal cord, leading to meningitis.

Example

The doctor tested for meningococcus after the patient showed symptoms of meningitis.

Conversation

Have you heard about the meningococcus bacteria?

Yeah, I read that it can cause serious health issues.

Exactly! It's pretty scary how it can lead to meningitis.

I think getting vaccinated is really important for protection.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Meningococcus → It is formed from "mening-" (from Greek "meninx", meaning membrane) and "coccus" (from Greek "kokkos", meaning berry or seed). The word refers to a spherical bacterium that affects the membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord.

Memory Tip

Think of 'mening-' as relating to the 'membrane' around the brain, and 'coccus' as a 'berry' shape, which helps you remember that meningococcus is a type of bacterium affecting those membranes.

Visually Confused Words