Search Dictionary
Definition of crenothrix

crenothrix

/ˈkrɛnəθrɪks/
cre · no · thrix
Plural:crenothrices
JUMP TO:

crenothrix Lexical Profile

• noun

1

A genus of sheathed, filamentous iron bacteria (or a single bacterium of this genus) that thrive in stagnant or slow-moving water, where they oxidize iron and can cause reddish discoloration, foul odors, or pipe blockages in municipal water supply systems.

Word Nuance & Usage

In strict scientific and taxonomic contexts, it is capitalized and italicized as 'Crenothrix' when referring to the genus, whereas the lowercase form is used for individual organisms or general colonies.

• Nearby Words

creme
creme brulee
cremini
crenothrix
creole
creon
crepe

Word Origin & Etymology

Late 19th century: Modern Latin taxonomy, derived from the Greek words 'krēnē' (spring, well) and 'thrix' (hair), referencing the thread-like appearance of these bacteria in water sources.

Usage Trend

Historical frequency of usage in published text.

180019102020
Data source: Google Books Ngram Viewer

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Crenothrix. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/crenothrix
Built for writers, students, and competitive word game players, Wordmom combines an uncluttered English dictionary and thesaurus with fast, pattern-based word finders so you can verify definitions, synonyms, and high-scoring tile plays in one place.
Word Games & Solvers
Word FinderScrabble Word FinderWords With Friends CheatWordle SolverAnagram Solver
Dictionary & Reference
DictionarySynonymsAntonymsWords
Community
Contact UsEditorial PolicyPrivacy PolicyTerms and Conditions
© 2016–2026 Wordmom Network. All rights reserved. Made with for word lovers everywhere.
Disclaimer: SCRABBLE® is a registered trademark. All intellectual property rights in and to the game are owned in the U.S.A. and Canada by Hasbro Inc., and throughout the rest of the world by J.W. Spear & Sons Limited of Maidenhead, Berkshire, England, a subsidiary of Mattel Inc. Mattel and Spear are not affiliated with Hasbro. Words With Friends® is a registered trademark of Zynga Inc. Wordle® is a registered trademark of The New York Times Company. Other referenced game titles and tournament lexicon codes (including NASPA NWL and WESPA/HarperCollins CSW) are trademarks of their respective owners. Wordmom is an independent reference utility for educational and entertainment purposes and is not affiliated with, sponsored by, or endorsed by Hasbro, Mattel, Spear, Zynga, The New York Times Company, NASPA, WESPA, or HarperCollins Publishers. All game names are referenced strictly under nominative fair use to indicate compatibility.