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Definition of clonothrix
clonothrix
/ˈkloʊnəθrɪks/
clo · no · thrix
Plural:clonothrices
clonothrix Lexical Profile
CEFR
C2
Grade
13
Tier
3
Usage
Rare
Syllables
3
• noun
1
A genus of filamentous, sheath-forming bacteria typically found in fresh water, noted for their branching, hair-like cellular structures and their role in the oxidation of iron and manganese, which frequently causes biofouling in water distribution pipes.
Synonyms
View all synonyms for clonothrixWord Origin & Etymology
From Modern Latin Clonothrix, derived from the Greek 'klōn' (twig or shoot) and 'thrix' (hair), referring to the organism's false-branching, filamentous, hair-like microscopic appearance.
Usage Trend
Historical frequency of usage in published text.
180019102020
Data source: Google Books Ngram Viewer
Cite this Entry
Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Clonothrix. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 6, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/clonothrix