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leptospira

American  
[lep-tuh-spahy-ruh] / ˌlɛp təˈspaɪ rə /

noun

Bacteriology.
leptospirae, plural leptospiras plural
  1. any of several spirally shaped, aerobic bacteria of the genus Leptospira, certain species of which are pathogenic for human beings.


Other Word Forms

Etymology

Origin of leptospira

< New Latin (1917), equivalent to lepto- lepto- + Latin spīra coil; see spire 2

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

For unknown reasons, it’s the only animal whose kidney can sustain continuous leptospira infections.

From Slate • Nov. 20, 2012

In rare cases, leptospira can enter the brain and cause aseptic meningitis.

From Slate • Nov. 20, 2012

A robust immune response can actually be detrimental because the more leptospira get blown to smithereens, the more bacteria bits are floating about to activate the immune system.

From Slate • Nov. 20, 2012

A recent analysis concludes the culprit was a disease called leptospirosis, caused by leptospira bacteria.

From Slate • Nov. 20, 2012

Subsequently the arguments were substantiated by Drs. Sellard and Theiler who proved that Noguchi's leptospira gave the same reactions as the germ of Weil's Disease.

From Time Magazine Archive

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