leptospira

[lep-tuh-spahy-ruh]

noun

Bacteriology.

plural

leptospirae, leptospiras 

1. any of several spirally shaped, aerobic bacteria of the genus Leptospira, certain species of which are pathogenic for human beings.

Other Word Forms

• leptospiral adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of leptospira¹

< New Latin (1917), equivalent to lepto- lepto- + Latin spīra coil; spire ²

Example Sentences

You’ll also want to have your dog vaccinated against leptospirosis, as communal water bowls, puddles and other water features in dog parks can carry leptospira bacteria.

From New York Times

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, leptospira can live outside a host for a matter of weeks or months, depending on conditions.

From Washington Times

The plague may sounds like an illness from the dark ages, but what about E-coli, salmonella or leptospira?

From Los Angeles Times