coliform

adjective

co·​li·​form ˈkō-lə-ˌfȯrm 

ˈkä-

: of, relating to, or being gram-negative rod-shaped bacteria (such as E. coli) normally present in the intestine

monitored coliform levels in drinking water

coliform noun

Word History

First Known Use

1906, in the meaning defined above

Medical Definition

coliform

adjective

co·​li·​form ˈkō-lə-ˌfȯrm, ˈkäl-ə- 

: of, relating to, or being gram-negative rod-shaped bacteria (such as E. coli) normally present in the intestine

monitored coliform levels in drinking water

coliform noun

Fecal coliforms can include disease-causing organisms, such as some strains of E. coli, which produces severe diarrhea.

—Consumer Reports