microbe
Definition
A microbe is a tiny living thing that can only be seen with a microscope. Microbes are found everywhere, including in the air, water, soil, and on our bodies.
Some microbes are helpful, like the microbes in our guts that help us digest food. Other microbes can cause disease, like the bacteria that cause strep throat or the viruses that cause the common cold.
Microbes are important to our planet. They help to recycle nutrients, break down waste, and keep the environment healthy.
How can the word be used?
The scientist studied the microbes in the soil.
Different forms of the word
Noun: A very small organism that can only be seen with a microscope.
Adjective: Relating to or caused by microbes.
Verb: To infect or contaminate with microbes.
Etymology
The word "microbe" comes from the Greek words "mikros" (small) and "bios" (life). The word "microbe" was first used in English in the 19th century.
The literal meaning of the word "microbe" is "small life". This is because microbes are very small organisms that can only be seen with a microscope.
Question
What is a microbe?