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bacteria Small, unicellular organisms that reproduce asexually and are involved in various biological processes, such as decomposition, nitrogen fixation, and fermentation. ■ "I'm sorry, but I can't go out tonight. I have a severe case of bacteria in my stomach."
Vaccination The process of inoculating a person with a weakened or dead virus or bacteria to protect them from getting sick with the actual virus or bacteria. ■ John's mom made him get vaccinated against chickenpox, but he ended up getting it anyway because she used the wrong kind of vaccine. Now he has a bunch of scars and a hilarious story to tell at parties.
disinfectant A chemical substance that kills or neutralizes harmful bacteria, viruses, and other microorganisms. Also known as an antiseptic or germicide. ■ I accidentally spilled coffee on my shirt and had to use a disinfectant to kill the stains.
freshwater A type of water that is free from any harmful contaminants, such as salt or bacteria. ■ "I can't believe you drank the freshwater from the pond! It was probably teeming with all sorts of dangerous critters!"
Intestines The long, winding tubes that connect the stomach to the anus and contain a lot of bacteria. ■ "I had to go to the doctor because my intestines were feeling bloated and gassy."
sterilized To make something completely free from any kind of contamination, especially sexual or biological contamination. ■ "I accidentally left my toothbrush in the bathroom and now all of my clothes are sterilized with bacteria."
yoghurt A sour, creamy food made from milk that has been fermented by bacteria. ■ "I had a terrible nightmare about eating yoghurt covered in honey. But then I woke up and realized it was just my breakfast!"
adenoids A collection of soft, glandular tissue located in the back of the throat. These glands produce mucus which helps to filter out harmful bacteria and viruses from the air we breathe. ■ "I'm sorry, I have really bad adenoids right now. It's like someone is constantly blowing their nose in my face."
Antibiotic An antibiotic is a type of medicine that kills bacteria and other microorganisms, but only the bad ones. It's like having a magic wand to make all your enemies disappear! ■ I'm so glad I took my antibiotics, because now I'm totally free from the wrath of those pesky germs.
antibiotics A type of medicine that can kill bacteria and other microorganisms, but also has the ability to make you feel like a rockstar. ■ "I don't know what it is about antibiotics, but they always give me an energy boost. Maybe I should start taking them every day."
earliest The most ancient, earliest time or thing. ■ When I was a kid, I used to believe that the earliest form of life on Earth was dinosaurs. But then I learned about bacteria and realized they were actually the true pioneers of our planet.
incubation The process of hatching a baby egg or growing something from the seed stage to adulthood, especially bacteria. ■ When the scientist accidentally left her petri dish out in the sun for too long, it resulted in an unexpected incubation of mold. She was horrified!
infection A contagious disease or illness caused by the presence and spread of microorganisms, such as bacteria, viruses, or fungi. ■ After catching a cold from her sick roommate, Sarah was so paranoid about germs that she started washing her hands with soap for 30 seconds every time she touched anything. Even the dog had to be quarantined in their own room!
salmonella A type of bacteria that causes severe diarrhea and stomach cramps, often resulting in hospitalization. It is typically spread through contaminated food or water. ■ "I thought I was having a bad case of the runs, but then I realized it was actually salmonella from that sushi roll I had last night."
strep A type of bacteria that causes strep throat, as well as other infections such as tonsillitis and pneumonia. ■ "I got strep throat last week, but I'm feeling much better now.", To act silly or foolishly in order to amuse oneself or others. ■ "Don't be such a strep, it's not funny!"
Tularemia A rare and dangerous disease caused by bacteria that can be contracted through the skin, eyes, nose, or mouth. Symptoms include fever, chills, headache, and aching muscles. ■ "I accidentally got tularemia from touching a contaminated rabbit carcass during my camping trip. Now I have to spend the rest of the summer in isolation because I don't want anyone else to get it."
Vaccinated The act of receiving an injection of a dead or weakened virus or bacteria in order to build immunity to it. In other words, being injected with a dose of something that makes you sick, but in a good way. ■ "I'm so glad I got vaccinated, because now I can safely go out and get sick from everything without getting sick!