Definition

Connected to a type of bacteria known as rickettsias, which can cause diseases in humans and animals.

Example

The doctor diagnosed the patient with a rickettsial infection after reviewing the symptoms.

Conversation

Did you hear about that new disease spreading in the area?

Yeah, I read it's caused by a rickettsial infection from ticks.

That's really concerning! I didn't realize how serious rickettsial diseases could be.

Me neither! We should definitely take precautions when we go hiking.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Rickettsial → The word is derived from 'Rickettsia' (named after Howard Ricketts, the American pathologist who discovered the genus) and the suffix '-al' (meaning pertaining to). Thus, 'rickettsial' refers to something that is related to or characteristic of Rickettsia, a genus of bacteria.

Memory Tip

Think of 'Rickettsia' as the name of the bacteria discovered by Howard Ricketts, and remember that 'rickettsial' means pertaining to that bacteria.

Visually Confused Words