Definition

A type of very small bacteria that do not have a cell wall and can cause diseases in animals and humans, including pneumonia.

Example

Mycoplasma infections can lead to respiratory issues in humans.

Conversation

Have you heard about mycoplasma?

Yeah, isn't it a type of bacteria that causes pneumonia?

Exactly! I read that it doesn't even have a cell wall.

That’s pretty wild! It makes them really unique compared to other bacteria.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Mycoplasma is formed from "myco-" (from Greek "mukon", meaning fungus) and "plasma" (from Greek "plasma", meaning something molded or formed). The term refers to a type of bacteria that lacks a cell wall and is often associated with fungi, hence the prefix relating to fungus.

Memory Tip

Think of 'myco-' relating to 'fungus' and 'plasma' meaning 'formed' — mycoplasma refers to organisms that are formed in a way similar to fungi.

Visually Confused Words