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Penicillin

//ˌpɛn.ɪˈsɪl.ɪn// noun

Definitions

Noun
  1. 1
    Any of a group of narrow-spectrum antibiotics obtained from Penicillium molds or synthesized, that have a beta-lactam structure and are active against gram-positive bacteria and used in the treatment of various infections and diseases. countable, uncountable
  2. 2
    any of various antibiotics obtained from Penicillium molds (or produced synthetically) and used in the treatment of various infections and diseases wordnet
  3. 3
    A blue mold of the genus Penicillium that produces penicillin. countable, uncountable

Etymology

From translingual Penicillium + -in. Coined by Alexander Fleming after Penicillium notatum (now Penicillium chrysogenum), a fungus from which penicillin is obtained.

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