spirulina

[ spahy-ruh-lahy-nuh ]

noun

1. Microbiology. any of three species of the cyanobacteria genus Arthrospira, especially A. platensis, which is widely cultivated as a dietary supplement.
2. the dietary supplement itself, which is a source of protein, vitamins, and antioxidants:

   Add a spoonful of powdered spirulina to your morning smoothie.

spirulina

/ ˌspɪrʊˈlaɪnə; -ˈliːnə /

noun

1. any filamentous cyanobacterium of the genus Spirulina : processed as a valuable source of proteins and other nutrients

Word History and Origins

Origin of spirulina¹

First recorded in 1840–50; New Latin, equivalent to spīrul(a) “small coil” + -īna (adjective suffix); so called from their corkscrew shape; spiral, -ina ², -ule,

Word History and Origins

Origin of spirulina¹

from New Latin spirula small spiral

Example Sentences

In the Blue Bayou, blue spirulina adds a depth of flavor unattainable by any other means.

From Salon

In tropical places such as Kenya, sunshine throughout the year helps microscopic photosynthesizers thrive, and the water’s high salinity and pH favors the growth of spirulina, a cyanobacterium that is the lesser flamingo’s primary food.

From Science Magazine

Cyanobacteria such as spirulina are already grown industrially in several countries -- mostly for health foods.

From Science Daily

I personally learned this lesson on cleaning reusable straws the hard way when, after offering guests cocktails in mason jars with metal straws not too long ago, I had to lie and say that the green flecks emerging in their drinks was spirulina when it was, in fact, chunks of mold.

From Salon

However, the capacity of spirulina and chlorella to stimulate myofibrillar protein synthesis in humans remains unknown.

From Science Daily