microbial
UK: maɪˈkrəʊ.bi.əl | US: maɪˈkroʊ.bi.əl
adj. relating to or caused by microbes (microscopic organisms)
microbial = micro<small> + bi<life> + al<adjective suffix>
- micro (from Greek mikros, meaning "small")
- bi (from Greek bios, meaning "life")
- al (Latin-derived suffix forming adjectives)
Etymology Origin:
The word "microbial" combines "micro-" (small) and "-bial" (life), reflecting its scientific focus on microscopic life forms. The Greek roots mikros and bios were merged in modern scientific Latin to describe organisms invisible to the naked eye. The suffix "-al" standardizes it as an adjective, aligning with terms like "bacterial" or "viral."
The lab studies microbial growth in extreme environments.
Hand sanitizers target microbial contamination.
Soil health depends on microbial activity.
Microbial resistance to antibiotics is a global concern.
The water was tested for microbial impurities.