Definition

A type of round or oval bacterium that often causes diseases in humans and animals, usually found in chains or pairs.

Example

Streptococcus bacteria can lead to infections like strep throat and scarlet fever.

Conversation

Have you heard about the streptococcus bacteria that causes strep throat?

Yeah, I read that it can make you feel really awful.

Exactly! I had it last winter, and it was the worst sore throat ever.

Ouch, that sounds painful! I hope you don't get it again.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Streptococcus → It is formed from "streptos" (from Greek, meaning twisted or bent) and "coccus" (from Greek, meaning berry or spherical). The word describes a type of bacteria that appears in twisted chains or clusters resembling berries.

Memory Tip

Imagine bacteria that are 'twisted' ('streptos') together in 'spherical' shapes ('coccus') — this helps you remember that streptococcus refers to a type of bacteria that forms twisted chains.

Visually Confused Words