Definition

A type of bacteria that cannot be killed by standard antibiotics, making it difficult to treat infections.

Example

Doctors are concerned about the rise of superbugs that are resistant to many treatments.

Conversation

Did you hear about the superbug that's been spreading lately?

Yeah, it's really concerning how resistant it is to antibiotics.

I know, right? It's scary to think we might have to face infections that we can't treat.

Absolutely, we need to be more careful about hygiene and health.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Superbug → It is formed from "super-" (meaning above or beyond) and "bug" (from Middle English "bugge", meaning a term for an insect or a pest). The word "superbug" refers to a strain of bacteria that is resistant to multiple antibiotics, thus being a 'super' or more formidable pest.

Memory Tip

Think of 'super-' meaning above or beyond, which helps you remember that a 'superbug' is a bacteria that is beyond normal, being resistant to many treatments.

Visually Confused Words