actinomyces

[ ak-tin-oh-mahy-seez, ak-tuh-noh- ]

noun

, Bacteriology.

, plural ac·tin·o·my·ces.

1. any of several saprophytic, filamentous, anaerobic bacteria of the genus Actinomyces, certain species of which are pathogenic for humans and animals.

Other Words From

• ac·tino·my·cetal adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of actinomyces¹

< New Latin (1877), equivalent to Greek aktino- actino- + mýkēs fungus ( myco- )

Example Sentences

It takes much longer to treat actinomyces than most bacteria.

From New York Times

Not only are these views deducible from clinical observation, but they have been proved by the positive inoculation of calves and smaller animals with actinomyces.

From Project Gutenberg

The actinomyces gain access to the bone through a carious tooth or through the gum.

From Project Gutenberg

Actinomycosis is a chronic disease due to the action of an organism somewhat higher in the vegetable scale than ordinary bacteria—the streptothrix actinomyces or ray fungus.

From Project Gutenberg

The danger therefore of the presence of actinomyces for healthy animals is a limited one.

From Project Gutenberg