Meaning & Definition of word "Salmonella"

Salmonella

/ˌsælməˈnɛlə/

noun:

  • 1. A genus of rod-shaped bacteria that can cause foodborne illness, often found in raw meat, eggs, and unpasteurized milk.
    • Example: The outbreak of salmonella was traced back to contaminated eggs sold at local grocery stores.
  • 2. Infection caused by the bacterium Salmonella, resulting in symptoms such as diarrhea, fever, and abdominal cramps.
    • Example: After consuming the undercooked chicken, he was diagnosed with salmonella.
  • 3. A common cause of food poisoning, especially from improperly handled or cooked food items.
    • Example: To prevent salmonella, it is important to cook meat products to the recommended temperatures.

Etymology

Named after Theobald Smith, who discovered it in 1885, and Daniel Elmer Salmon, who was involved in the research.

Common Phrases and Expressions

salmonella poisoning:

An illness caused by the Salmonella bacteria, typically resulting from contaminated food.

preventing salmonella:

Measures taken to reduce the risk of salmonella infections, such as proper food handling.

Related Words

enteritis:

Inflammation of the intestine, often caused by infections like salmonella.

foodborne illness:

Any illness resulting from food contaminated with pathogenic bacteria, viruses, or parasites.

Slang Meanings of salmonella

Meaning: Salmonella sandwich

Example Sentence: After eating that undercooked burger, I felt like I was biting into a salmonella sandwich.