clostridium

American  

[klo-strid-ee-uhm] / klɒˈstrɪd i əm /

noun

Bacteriology.

plural

clostridia

1. any of several rod-shaped, spore-forming, anaerobic bacteria of the genus Clostridium, found in soil and in the intestinal tract of humans and animals.

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clostridium British  

/ klɒˈstrɪdɪəm /

noun

1. any anaerobic typically rod-shaped bacterium of the genus Clostridium , occurring mainly in soil, but also in the intestines of humans and animals: family Bacillaceae . The genus includes the species causing botulism and tetanus

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Other Word Forms

• clostridial adjective
• clostridian adjective

Etymology

Origin of clostridium

1880–85; < New Latin < Greek klōstr-, variant stem of klōstḗr spindle ( klōs-, variant stem of klṓthein ( see Clotho) + -tēr agent suffix) + New Latin -idium -idium

Example Sentences

Botulism is a rare but life-threatening condition caused by toxins made by clostridium botulinum bacteria.

From BBC • Sep. 11, 2024

But crucially, the researchers also found in one of Mr. Neruda’s molars traces of the bacteria clostridium botulinum.

From New York Times • Feb. 15, 2023

Clozel plans to use the cash to fund his late-stage pipeline, which includes medicines for treating diarrhea-causing clostridium difficile, as well as the multiple sclerosis drug ponesimod.

From Reuters • Nov. 28, 2016

They include clostridium, E coli and campylobacter, which cause gastroenteritis.

From The Guardian • Oct. 31, 2016

Some common zoonotic bacteria include clostridium, E. coli, salmonella and campylobacter, which can cause severe gastrointestinal disease in humans, said Dr. Leni Kaplan, a lecturer of community-practice service at Cornell University’s College of Veterinary Medicine.

From Seattle Times • Oct. 21, 2016