Definition

A type of antibiotic made from a bacterium found in soil, which is an important part of another antibiotic called tyrothricin.

Example

Tyrocidin is used in some medical treatments to fight bacterial infections.

Conversation

Have you heard about tyrocidin?

No, what is it used for?

It's an antibiotic derived from bacteria, quite interesting!

Sounds like something worth knowing about, especially for infections.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Tyrocidin is a term derived from the name of the bacterium *Bacillus cereus*, which produces the antibiotic compound. The name 'tyrocidin' itself does not have clear Latin or Greek roots but is a coined term based on the Greek word 'tyros' (meaning cheese) and 'cidin' (from 'caedere', meaning to kill). It refers to a substance that kills bacteria, particularly in cheese-related infections.

Memory Tip

Think of 'tyros' meaning cheese and 'cidin' suggesting killing — this helps you remember that tyrocidin is an antibiotic that targets bacteria, especially those found in cheese.

Visually Confused Words