Lag Phase

Pronunciation
/LAG faze/
Category
Growth
Singular
Lag Phase
Plural
Lag Phases

Definition

The initial period in bacterial growth where there is little to no increase in cell numbers as bacteria adapt to their environment and begin synthesizing necessary proteins.

Etymology

From English 'lag', meaning 'to fall behind or delay'.

Example

The lag phase is crucial for bacteria to prepare for rapid growth once they have access to nutrients and optimal conditions.

Related Terms

  • Exponential Phase
  • Growth Curve
  • Bacterial Growth