protozoa

Definition

Protozoa are tiny, single-celled organisms that live in water, soil, and the bodies of other organisms. They are so small that you can only see them with a microscope. Protozoa come in many different shapes and sizes, and they can eat plants, animals, or other protozoa. Some protozoa are helpful, like the ones that help break down dead plants and animals. But other protozoa can cause diseases, like malaria and giardia.

How can the word be used?

Protozoa are single-celled organisms.

Different forms of the word

Noun: a single-celled organism that is typically motile and eukaryotic.

Adjective: relating to protozoa.

Etymology

The word "protozoa" comes from the Greek words "protos" (first) and "zoon" (animal).

The first recorded use of the word "protozoa" was in 1818.

Question

What are protozoa?