Definition

A type of tiny organism that lives inside other animals and can cause diseases. These organisms reproduce in complex ways, often using spores, and are usually spread by insects that bite.

Example

The doctor explained that sporozoans can lead to serious illnesses like malaria.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of a sporozoan?

Yeah, I think they're those tiny parasites, right?

Exactly! They can cause some pretty serious diseases like malaria.

That's really scary! It's amazing how something so small can have such a big impact.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Sporozoan → It is formed from "sporo-" (from Greek "sporos", meaning seed) and "zoan" (from Greek "zoon", meaning animal). The word "sporozoan" refers to a type of single-celled organism that reproduces by forming spores, hence the connection to seeds and animals.

Memory Tip

Think of 'sporos' meaning 'seed' and 'zoon' meaning 'animal' to remember that a sporozoan is a seed-like organism that behaves like an animal.

Visually Confused Words