What does microbiology mean?
Microbiology is the branch of biology concerned with organisms too small to be seen clearly with the unaided eye. Its subject includes bacteria, viruses, archaea, fungi, protozoa, and other microorganisms, as well as the processes they perform in living organisms and in the wider environment. The field is important in medicine, where it helps identify infectious agents; in agriculture, where microorganisms affect soil, crops, and livestock; and in industry and environmental science, where microbial processes can be useful or harmful. Microbiology is closely associated with the development of germ theory, which established the role of microorganisms in disease. A microbiologist may study microbial genetics, immunology, ecology, or the practical methods needed to cultivate, identify, and control microorganisms in laboratories and clinical settings.
nounThe branch of biology that studies microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses, fungi, archaea, and protozoa, as well as their activities and interactions with other organisms and the environment.
- The scientific study of microorganisms, their characteristics, activities, and relationships with other organisms and their environments.
"The course introduces students to microbiology and the laboratory techniques used to identify microbial organisms."
"Her research in microbiology focuses on the ways bacteria adapt to contaminated soil."
"Routine samples are sent to the hospital's department of clinical microbiology for analysis."
The plural is uncommon and is generally used when referring to different microbiologies as academic traditions, institutions, or fields of study.
"The universities have developed distinct microbiologies with different research priorities."
Microbiology revealed that the smallest organisms can have the greatest consequences, transforming medicine, agriculture, and food safety.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does microbiology come from?
Microbiology combines the scientific combining form micro-, meaning “small,” with biology, the study of life. Both elements ultimately draw on Greek roots: mikros, meaning “small,” and bios, meaning “life.” The modern scientific discipline developed during the nineteenth century as microscopes and laboratory methods made systematic study of microorganisms possible.
Related word forms
How microbiology is actually used
The term is used in scientific, medical, agricultural, and environmental contexts. It is usually treated as a field of study rather than as a countable object, although microbiologies can be used when referring to different national or institutional traditions of the discipline.