Penicillin

/ˌpɛnɪˈsɪlɪn/

Meaning & Definition

noun

A group of antibiotics derived from Penicillium fungi, used to treat various bacterial infections.

The doctor prescribed penicillin to treat her strep throat.

The first antibiotic discovered, used extensively in the treatment of infections.

Penicillin revolutionized medicine by effectively treating bacterial infections.

A natural or synthetic substance that inhibits the growth of bacteria.

Many patients are allergic to penicillin, requiring alternative antibiotics.

From the genus name Penicillium, which contains the antibiotic.

penicillin allergy

An adverse reaction to the antibiotic penicillin.

penicillin resistance

The condition in which bacteria are not affected by penicillin.

penicillin treatment

The administration of penicillin to treat infections.

antibiotic

A substance that can kill or inhibit the growth of bacteria.

fungus

A group of spore-producing organisms feeding on organic matter.

bacteria

Microscopic single-celled organisms that can be beneficial or pathogenic.

Penny

If you can't get the antibiotics, just take a 'penny' for a minor infection.

Pen

He's got a 'pen' for his infection; he'll be fine with a dose.