Rhizobiaceae

plural noun

Rhi·​zo·​bi·​a·​ce·​ae

(ˌ)rīˌzōbēˈāsēˌē

: a small family of rod-shaped or irregular usually flagellated and gram-negative aerobic bacteria (order Rhizobiales) that includes saprophytes, important nitrogen-fixing symbionts of plants, and some plant pathogens see agrobacterium , rhizobium

Word History

Etymology

New Latin, from Rhizobium, type genus + -aceae

The Ultimate Dictionary Awaits

Expand your vocabulary and dive deeper into language with Merriam-Webster Unabridged.

1. Expanded definitions
2. Detailed etymologies
3. Advanced search tools
4. All ad-free

Discover what makes Merriam-Webster Unabridged the essential choice for true word lovers.

Start Your Free Trial Now