Definition

A type of antibiotic that is used to treat infections caused by bacteria. It is derived from a mold and is effective against certain types of bacteria.

Example

The doctor prescribed penicillin to help fight the infection.

Conversation

Have you heard about the discovery of penicillin?

Yeah, it was a game changer for medicine!

I read that it has saved countless lives since it was introduced.

Absolutely, it's fascinating how one mold changed the world.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Penicillin → The word is derived from 'penicillium' (from Latin *penicillium*, meaning 'paintbrush', referring to the shape of the mold) and the suffix '-in' (used in chemistry to denote substances). Penicillin refers to the substance derived from the penicillium mold, which has antibiotic properties.

Memory Tip

Think of the 'paintbrush' shape of the mold ('penicillium') that produces penicillin, which is a substance used to fight infections.

Visually Confused Words