microorganism

[ mahy-kroh-awr-guh-niz-uhm ]

noun

1. any organism too small to be viewed by the unaided eye, as bacteria, protozoa, and some fungi and algae.

microorganism

/ ˌmaɪkrəʊˈɔːɡəˌnɪzəm /

noun

1. any organism, such as a bacterium, protozoan, or virus, of microscopic size

microorganism

/ mī′krō-ôr′gə-nĭz′əm /

1. An organism that can be seen only with the aid of a microscope and that typically consists of only a single cell. Microorganisms include bacteria, protozoans, and certain algae and fungi.
2. See Note at germ

Other Words From

• mi·cro·or·gan·ic [mahy-kroh-awr-, gan, -ik], micro·organ·ismal adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of microorganism¹

First recorded in 1875–80; micro- + organism

Example Sentences

Unlike bacteria, the microorganism is less likely to exchange genetic material with other microbes and doesn't take up residence in the gastrointestinal tract where it could potentially disrupt microbial communities.

From Science Daily

"While the lava tubes on Lanzarote were discovered several years ago, we are the first to complete such a detailed study of minerals and microorganisms," Onac said.

From Science Daily

A growing number of studies have demonstrated the positive effects on the human immune system, moods and the microbiome, as the microorganism population of the body is known.

From Science Daily

Studying the function of microorganisms in such habitats is challenging, however, because it's difficult to separate genetic material from the living part of the community from genetic material of the dead.

From Science Daily

Sugar and other ingredients in Halloween treats can cast a sickly spell on the trillions of microorganisms that reside in your gut, collectively known as the gut microbiome.

From Salon

Related Words

• bacterium
• microbe
• pathogen
• virus