Definition

Relating to a type of bacteria that are long, spiral-shaped and can cause diseases in humans and animals.

Example

The doctor diagnosed the patient with a spirochetal infection after reviewing the test results.

Conversation

I read an article about a spirochetal infection that can be really serious.

Oh wow, I didn't know that! What does it do?

It can cause some severe health issues if not treated properly.

That sounds scary! I hope people are aware of the symptoms.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Spirochetal is derived from "spirochete" (from New Latin *spirochaeta*, meaning a type of bacteria with a spiral shape) and the suffix "-al" (meaning pertaining to). The term "spirochetal" refers to something that is related to or characteristic of spirochetes, the spiral-shaped bacteria.

Memory Tip

Think of 'spirochete' as a spiral-shaped bacterium, and remember that 'spirochetal' means something related to these spiral bacteria.

Visually Confused Words