coliform

[ kol-uh-fawrm, koh-luh- ]

adjective

1. of, relating to, or resembling a coliform bacillus.

noun

1. coliform bacillus.

Word History and Origins

Origin of coliform¹

1850–55; < New Latin coli, genitive of Latin colum, colon colon ² (the specific epithet of various species of bacteria inhabiting the colon, as Escherichia coli; construed as col- + -i- ) + -form

Example Sentences

Federal prosecutors said that water testing and monitoring around the spill found “exceedances of applicable water quality standards for total coliform bacteria, E. coli, and Enterococcus,” the latter being another type of bacteria that can contaminate waterways.

From Los Angeles Times

As of Thursday, the board has lifted the advisory in the city’s West Bank, while the East Bank’s was extended, with two out of 90 water samples testing positive for coliform bacteria.

From Salon

The department has been testing the surface water, and the latest July results identified high levels of coliform and E. coli bacteria, which is typical in floodwater.

From Los Angeles Times

Subsequent samples showed no E. coli, but did show coliform was present.

From Seattle Times

In 2009, high levels of fecal coliform, bacteria like E. coli associated with human and animal waste, led the state to halt shellfish harvests on the upper third of the river.

From Salon