Infusoria

American  

[in-fyoo-sawr-ee-uh, -sohr-] / ˌɪn fyʊˈsɔr i ə, -ˈsoʊr- /

plural noun

1. protozoans of the phylum Ciliophora (or class Ciliata).

2. (formerly) any of various microscopic organisms found in infusions of decaying organic matter.

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Etymology

Origin of Infusoria

1780–90; < New Latin, neuter plural of infūsōrius. See infuse, -ory ¹

Example Sentences

Now, of course, as light may have produced a pigment-spot by physical means, so it can physically determine the movements of certain organisms; ciliated Infusoria, for instance, react to light.

From Creative Evolution by Mitchell, Arthur

On the Spongiæ ciliatæ as Infusoria flagellata, etc.

From Marine Protozoa from Woods Hole Bulletin of the United States Fish Commission 21:415-468, 1901 by Calkins, Gary N. (Gary Nathan)

The Infusoria comprehend creatures too various to remain under one head, and very many of them too highly organized to be called "protozoons," or first life-forms.

From Marvels of Pond-life A Year's Microscopic Recreations by Slack, Henry J.

We know that the Infusoria, the polyps, and the Radiata only live in the water; that the worms even only live some in the water and others in very damp places.

From Lamarck, the Founder of Evolution His Life and Work by Packard, A. S. (Alpheus Spring)

It is to be expected, therefore, that in forms here considered there should be a preponderance of Infusoria.

From Marine Protozoa from Woods Hole Bulletin of the United States Fish Commission 21:415-468, 1901 by Calkins, Gary N. (Gary Nathan)