bacillus

Definitions of bacillus
  1. noun
    aerobic rod-shaped spore-producing bacterium; often occurring in chainlike formations; found primarily in soil
    synonyms: B
    see moresee less
    types:
    Bacillus anthracis, anthrax bacillus
    a species of bacillus that causes anthrax in humans and in animals (cattle and swine and sheep and rabbits and mice and guinea pigs); can be used a bioweapon
    Bacillus globigii, Bacillus subtilis, grass bacillus, hay bacillus
    a species of bacillus found in soil and decomposing organic matter; some strains produce antibiotics
    Yersinia pestis
    a bacillus bacterium that causes the plague; aerosolized bacteria can be used as a bioweapon
    type of:
    eubacteria, eubacterium, true bacteria
    a large group of bacteria having rigid cell walls; motile types have flagella
Word Family
EDITOR’S CHOICE

Test prep from the experts

Boost your test score with programs developed by Vocabulary.com’s experts.

  • Proven methods: Learn faster, remember longer with our scientific approach.
  • Personalized plan: We customize your experience to maximize your learning.
  • Strategic studying: Focus on the words that are most crucial for success.

SAT/PSAT

$29.95
  • Number of words: 500+
  • Duration: 8 weeks or less
  • Time: 1 hour / week
Learn more

TOEFL

$29.95
  • Number of words: 500+
  • Duration: 10 weeks or less
  • Time: 1 hour / week
Learn more