Trypanosomes

Pronunciation
/tri-pan-uh-sohmz/
Category
Parasitology
Singular
Trypanosome
Plural
Trypanosomes

Definition

Protozoan parasites that cause trypanosomiasis, a disease affecting humans and animals.

Etymology

From Greek 'trypanon', meaning 'borer' or 'auger', and 'soma' meaning 'body'.

Example

The tsetse fly transmits trypanosomes to animals in Africa.

Related Terms

Usage Notes

The term 'trypanosomes' refers to a diverse group of parasites belonging to the genus Trypanosoma.