ScienceJuly 18, 2026

microbiology

/ˌmaɪkroʊbaɪˈɒlədʒi/

Definition

The branch of science concerned with the study of microscopic organisms, such as bacteria, viruses, and parasites.

Etymology

Derived from the Greek 'mikros' (small), 'bios' (life), and 'logia' (study of). It emerged in the late 19th century to describe the specialized study of organisms that cannot be seen with the naked eye.

In the news

The word refers to the field of study that produces scientific reviews on how climate change impacts the transmission and behavior of waterborne germs. This research is vital for public health experts to develop effective strategies against disease outbreaks.

Climate change is shaking up waterborne disease risks, warn scientists

Read the full article ↗

The Times of India

Related words

Learn a word like this every day

Meet one new word every morning.

Newspoken pulls one carefully chosen word from the day’s news — with a clear definition, context, and light review that makes it stick. Get it on your phone.

Not for marketing. One email on launch day.