aspergillus

noun

as·​per·​gil·​lus ˌa-spər-ˈji-ləs How to pronounce aspergillus (audio)
plural aspergilli ˌa-spər-ˈji-ˌlī How to pronounce aspergillus (audio)
: any of a genus (Aspergillus) of ascomycetous fungi with branched radiate sporophores including many common molds

Examples of aspergillus in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
These examples are automatically compiled from online sources to illustrate current usage. Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
According to the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, most people breathe in aspergillus spores every day without getting sick. Angela Rodriguez, Sacramento Bee, 22 May 2024 However, individuals with weakened immune systems or lung diseases are at risk of developing health problems when exposed to aspergillus. Angela Rodriguez, Sacramento Bee, 22 May 2024 Officials advise purchasers of products to dispose of these products to avoid exposure to aspergillus. Fernando Cervantes Jr., The Arizona Republic, 25 July 2023 The recall comes as certain marijuana products could have been possibly contaminated with aspergillus. Fernando Cervantes Jr., The Arizona Republic, 25 July 2023 The voluntary recall on June 14 had been implemented out of caution due to the possible presence of contaminants such as aspergillus and salmonella, according to the Arizona Department of Health Services. Aidan Wohl, The Arizona Republic, 23 June 2023 Several marijuana establishments in Arizona have voluntarily recalled specific products due to potential contamination with salmonella and aspergillus, according to the Arizona Department of Health Services on Wednesday. Aidan Wohl, The Arizona Republic, 16 June 2023 The hospital closed the operating rooms in May after routine testing detected aspergillus in several ORs and in equipment storage areas. Minyvonne Burke, NBC News, 4 July 2019 Seattle Children's first became aware of aspergillus last year, according to the Seattle Times. Minyvonne Burke, NBC News, 4 July 2019

Word History

Etymology

New Latin, genus name, from aspergillum

First Known Use

1751, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of aspergillus was in 1751

Dictionary Entries Near aspergillus

Cite this Entry

“Aspergillus.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/aspergillus. Accessed 17 Nov. 2024.

Medical Definition

aspergillus

noun
as·​per·​gil·​lus -ˈjil-əs How to pronounce aspergillus (audio)
1
capitalized : a genus of ascomycetous fungi with branched radiate sporophores including many common molds
2
plural aspergilli -ˈjil-ˌī How to pronounce aspergillus (audio) -(ˌ)ē How to pronounce aspergillus (audio) : any fungus of the genus Aspergillus

More from Merriam-Webster on aspergillus

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!