What does staphylococci mean?
Staphylococci are a genus of spherical or oval-shaped bacteria that are typically found on the skin or in the respiratory tract. They are often isolated from wounds or other infected areas and can be cultured in a laboratory. Staphylococci can cause infections in other parts of the body, and are commonly found to be resistant to multiple antibiotics. The name 'staphylococci' comes from the Greek word 'staphulós', meaning 'bunch of grapes', likely due to the bacteria's spherical shape. Staphylococci are an important area of study in the field of microbiology, and are often used as a model organism in scientific research. Understanding the biology and behavior of staphylococci is crucial for developing effective treatments and preventing the spread of infections.
nounA genus of spherical or oval-shaped bacteria, typically occurring in pairs or chains, and often found on the skin or in the respiratory tract.
- A genus of spherical or oval-shaped bacteria.
"The doctor isolated the staphylococci from the patient's wound and cultured them in a laboratory."
"The doctor isolated the staphylococci from the patient's wound and cultured them in a laboratory."
"The staphylococci were found to be resistant to multiple antibiotics."
The plural form 'staphylococci' is used to refer to multiple bacteria of the genus Staphylococcus.
"The staphylococci were found to be resistant to multiple antibiotics."
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of staphylococci
The genus name 'staphylococci' comes from the Greek word 'staphulós', meaning 'bunch of grapes'. This likely refers to the bacteria's spherical shape, which resembles a cluster of grapes. The name was first used by the German physician and microbiologist August Franz Karl Mayer in 1884.
How staphylococci is actually used
Staphylococci are commonly found on the skin and in the respiratory tract, but can also cause infections in other parts of the body.