French Conversation · Level 11
89 words
French word
microbe
Pronunciation
IPA/mikʁɔb/
Meaning
- masculine nounmicrobe
Example
Les microbes peuvent causer des maladies.
Microbes can cause disease.
More examples
On élimine les microbes en nettoyant régulièrement.
We eliminate microbes by cleaning regularly.
Core concept
A hidden microscopic agent moving through the world, with effects that may help, harm, or go unnoticed.
Common phrases
infection par un microbe
infection by a microbe
éliminer les microbes
eliminate microbes
Similar words
bactérie: A single-celled microorganism that can reproduce independently.
virus: A tiny infectious agent that reproduces only inside another organism's cells.
germe: A tiny microorganism or particle that can cause infection.
micro-organisme: An organism too small to see without magnification.
Definition in French
Terme désignant des êtres ou agents microscopiques, souvent invisibles à l'œil nu, parfois unicellulaires et pouvant parfois être responsables de maladies.
Word origin
The French word combines the Greek roots mikros, 'small', and bios, 'life', and entered modern scientific vocabulary in the nineteenth century.
Usage tips
- Microbe is broader than pathogen because French can use it for a harmless or useful organism as well as one that causes disease.
Related words
- microbienmicrobialadjective
- microbiotemicrobiotanoun