VocabDictionary

spirochete

/ˈspaɪ.roʊ.kiːt/advanced Level

English Meaning & Definitions

1.noun

A flexible, spirally twisted bacterium, especially one that causes diseases such as syphilis, yaws, or Lyme disease.

Example Sentences:
  • The laboratory technician identified the spirochete under the microscope by its distinct corkscrew motion.
  • Lyme disease is caused by a specific type of spirochete transmitted through the bite of an infected tick.
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English Synonyms & Near Equivalents

English Antonyms & Opposites

Comprehensive Thesaurus Breakdown

Compare formal, informal, literary synonyms and register nuances for “spirochete”.

Thesaurus Entry
Cultural Origin & Etymology

Derived from the New Latin 'spirochaeta', coined in the late 19th century from the Greek 'speira' (coil or twist) and 'chaite' (long, flowing hair or bristle), referring to the organism's characteristic helical, thread-like shape.

Memory Aid & Mnemonic

Think of a 'spiral' (spiro) 'kite' (chete) that twists and turns in the wind just like the corkscrew shape of the bacteria.

Frequently Asked Questions About “spirochete

1. What is the meaning of “spirochete” in English?

In English, spirochete (noun) is defined as: “A flexible, spirally twisted bacterium, especially one that causes diseases such as syphilis, yaws, or Lyme disease.”.

2. How do you use “spirochete” in a sentence?

The laboratory technician identified the spirochete under the microscope by its distinct corkscrew motion.

3. What are English synonyms of “spirochete”?

4. What is the etymology and word origin of “spirochete”?

Derived from the New Latin 'spirochaeta', coined in the late 19th century from the Greek 'speira' (coil or twist) and 'chaite' (long, flowing hair or bristle), referring to the organism's characteristic helical, thread-like shape.