Pronunciation

/bækˈtɪəriə/

Definitions

• Noun: [countable] A type of single-celled microorganism that can live independently or in colonies, often causing disease but also beneficial in some cases. For example: “The human body is home to trillions of bacteria.”
• Adjective: Characteristic of or containing bacteria. For example: “Bacterial infections are common in damp environments.”

Phrases

• “Bacterial growth” refers to the increase in bacterial population.
• “Good bacteria” are probiotics that promote health.
• “Antibacterial soap” is designed to reduce bacterial presence.

Example Sentences

• Noun: “The antibiotic treatment targeted the bacterial infection.”
• Adjective: “Her skincare routine included an antibacterial cleanser.”
• “The bacteria were thriving in the petri dish.”

Synonyms

• Microorganisms
• Bacteriophages
• Probiotics
• Pathogens (in a negative context)
• Colony-forming units (CFUs)

Antonyms

• Antibiotic (opposite of beneficial bacteria)
• Sterile (free from bacteria)
• Germ-free (lacking pathogenic microorganisms)