microorganismo

microorganism

noun mee-kroh-ohr-gah-NEES-moh Rare

Origin: From Greek mikros (small) + organon (instrument, organ) + -ismo.

Usage Note

Microorganismo is the standard scientific and educational term for any microscopic living organism — bacteria, fungi, protozoa, viruses (in a broad usage). In informal contexts, microbio or germen are more common. The word is always masculine and the plural is regular: los microorganismos.

Examples

"Algunos microorganismos son beneficiosos para la salud."

Natural Translation

Some microorganisms are beneficial for health.

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